Vaccinations are a cornerstone of preventive care for pets, protecting them from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. While puppy and kitten vaccinations are widely discussed, adult pets also require ongoing immunizations to maintain protection. Alta Vista Animal Hospital is here to help pet owners understand vaccination protocols, why they matter, and how to keep adult pets healthy.
Why Adult Pets Still Need Vaccinations
Even if your pet completed their puppy or kitten series, immunity can wane over time. Adult pets remain at risk for infectious diseases like rabies, distemper, parvovirus, and feline leukemia. Vaccinations help maintain strong immunity, reduce the risk of outbreaks, and protect pets that interact with other animals or visit public spaces.
Core Vaccines for Adult Dogs
Core vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of lifestyle:
- Rabies: Legally required in many regions, rabies vaccination protects your pet and your family from this fatal disease.
- Distemper, Adenovirus, and Parvovirus (DAP/DHPP): These vaccines protect against highly contagious and potentially deadly diseases.
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough): Recommended for dogs that socialize in boarding, daycare, or training facilities.
Core Vaccines for Adult Cats
For adult cats, core vaccines include:
- Rabies: Protects against the fatal rabies virus and is often legally required.
- Feline Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP): Protects against highly contagious respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.
Lifestyle and Risk-Based Vaccines
Some pets may require additional vaccines based on lifestyle or environmental exposure:
- Leptospirosis: For dogs in rural areas or near water sources.
- Lyme Disease: For dogs exposed to ticks in endemic regions.
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV): For cats that go outdoors or interact with other cats.
- Chlamydia and Bordetella (Cats): For multi-cat households or boarding environments.
Scheduling and Frequency
Adult pets generally receive booster vaccinations every 1–3 years, depending on the vaccine and your pet’s risk factors. Your veterinarian at Alta Vista Animal Hospital will create a tailored vaccination schedule, taking into account your pet’s age, breed, health status, and lifestyle.
Signs of a Healthy Response
Most pets tolerate vaccines well, though mild side effects can occur, such as slight lethargy, mild fever, or tenderness at the injection site. Serious reactions are rare, but if your pet shows swelling, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or persistent lethargy, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How Owners Can Help
Maintain accurate vaccination records, schedule regular wellness exams, and communicate any health concerns with your veterinarian. Ensuring your pet stays on schedule protects not only your individual pet but also the broader community of pets from preventable diseases.
When to See a Veterinarian
If you are unsure whether your adult pet is up-to-date on vaccinations or have questions about which vaccines are necessary, Alta Vista Animal Hospital can help. Our team will assess your pet’s needs and provide a personalized plan to keep them protected and healthy.