Essential Vaccinations for Pets: What You Need to Know

Puppies typically receive a DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, parvovirus) series starting at 6-8 weeks, with boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks, plus rabies at 12-16 weeks. Kittens typically receive FVRCP starting at 6-8 weeks with the same booster cadence, plus FeLV if recommended, and rabies at 12-16 weeks. Your veterinarian will tailor the exact schedule based on local disease risk.

Yes — at minimum, FVRCP and rabies. Indoor cats still encounter risk from family-member exposure, accidental escape, and visiting animals. Most states legally require rabies vaccination for cats regardless of indoor status. Talk to your vet about whether FeLV is appropriate for your specific household.

Sometimes. Titer testing can demonstrate continued immunity to certain core diseases (parvovirus, distemper) and can help guide whether a booster is needed. Titers are not a substitute for rabies vaccination, which is legally required by most jurisdictions on a fixed schedule regardless of titer.

Telehealth can review vaccination history, recommend a schedule, and prepare a treatment plan, but the vaccine itself must be administered in person by a licensed vet or technician. Many families use telehealth as the planning layer and in-person clinic visits for the actual vaccination.