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AIBU?

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To wonder if cats (including outdoor ones) really need annual vaccinations every year?

103 replies

lookingforshoes · 12/04/2025 10:53

Please note: I vaccinate my cat, and I am very happy to continue to vaccinate my cat. She is doted upon and I take far better care of her than I do myself tbh! So please don’t come after me.

That said, I am wondering, hypothetically, how necessary annual vaccinations really are for cats? Would they not build up a good level of immunity after the first few jabs and thereafter need a booster every few years?

I always do as my vet advises, but just thinking about it, it would be in the interests of veterinary pharmaceutical companies to recommend regular vaccination wouldn’t it, so long as it didn’t actually do any harm. But is there really any benefit?

OP posts:
lookingforshoes · 12/04/2025 11:00

utterexasperation · 12/04/2025 10:56

Your post isn't clear. Is your cat an indoor cat who never goes to the CATTERY and doesn't have contact with other cats ?

I’m asking a general question, not about my cat specifically.

Wondering if such regular vaccinations are really necessary for cats’ health.

I mentioned outdoor cats in my title as I do know that some indoor cat owners forego vaccinations as their cats never meet other cats.

OP posts:
utterexasperation · 12/04/2025 10:56

Your post isn't clear. Is your cat an indoor cat who never goes to the CATTERY and doesn't have contact with other cats ?

Purplebunnie · 12/04/2025 10:56

If you want them to stay in catteries then it is a must, although having said that my two have never been in a cattery. I'm not sure, maybe they get to a certain age and have immunity but probably not from the FIV