Introduction — Why Vaccinations Matter
Vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to protect pets from serious, and often life-threatening, infectious diseases. By training the immune system to recognise harmful viruses and bacteria, vaccines ensure your pet is prepared to fight off illness before it takes hold. In Australia, regular vaccination programs have greatly reduced the number of preventable diseases in dogs and cats, making them a crucial part of responsible pet ownership.
What Are “Core” Vaccines (and Why Are They Essential)?
Core vaccines are recommended for all pets, regardless of their breed, age, or lifestyle, because they protect against diseases that are severe, contagious, and widespread.
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For dogs, core vaccines typically protect against:
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Canine Distemper Virus (CDV)
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Canine Adenovirus (CAV)
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Canine Parvovirus (CPV-2)
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For cats, core vaccines are generally included in the F3 vaccine, which protects against:
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Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1)
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Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
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Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV/feline parvovirus)
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Because these diseases are highly infectious and potentially fatal, core vaccines are considered essential for every dog and cat.
Core vs Non-Core Vaccines — What’s the Difference?
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Core vaccines are necessary for all pets due to the severity of the diseases they prevent.
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Non-core vaccines are recommended based on a pet’s individual lifestyle and risk of exposure.
For example, a dog that frequently visits kennels or day care may need a kennel cough (Bordetella) vaccine, while outdoor cats may benefit from a Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) vaccine. Your vet will evaluate your pet’s age, environment, travel habits, and interaction with other animals before recommending additional vaccines.
Typical Vaccination Schedules in Australia
Puppies
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First vaccination: 6–8 weeks of age
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Follow-up doses: Every 2–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age (commonly three doses at 6–8, 10–12, and 14–16 weeks)
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Booster: 12 months after the final puppy dose
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Ongoing: Every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine and risk level
Kittens
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First vaccination: 6–8 weeks of age
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Follow-up doses: Every 2–4 weeks until around 16 weeks of age
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Booster: Between 6–12 months of age
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Ongoing: Every 1–3 years, with lifestyle factors influencing the schedule
These repeated early doses are necessary because maternal antibodies can interfere with immunity. The final vaccination ensures long-lasting protection once those maternal antibodies fade.
How Often Do Adult Pets Need Boosters?
Adult pets generally need boosters every 1–3 years, depending on the type of vaccine and the animal’s lifestyle. Some vaccines provide long-lasting immunity, while others require annual boosters to remain effective. In some cases, veterinarians may recommend antibody titre testing to measure immunity levels and decide whether a booster is necessary.
Are Pet Vaccinations Safe?
Yes — vaccines used in Australia are safe, and the benefits far outweigh the risks. Most pets experience little to no side effects. If reactions occur, they are usually mild and temporary, such as:
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Soreness or swelling at the injection site
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Mild lethargy or reduced appetite for 24–48 hours
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Slight fever
Serious reactions, such as severe allergic responses, are extremely rare. Vets are equipped to manage these situations should they occur, and vaccination protocols can be tailored for pets with previous sensitivities.
Special Considerations for Vaccination
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Young animals: Puppies and kittens must complete their full course to ensure proper immunity.
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Pregnant animals: Some vaccines are avoided during pregnancy, so always consult your vet.
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Shelter or boarding animals: Vaccines are often administered immediately upon arrival to reduce the spread of disease in high-risk environments.
Legal and Community Responsibilities
In Australia, responsible pet ownership involves not only caring for your pet but also protecting the wider community of animals. Vaccinating your dog or cat helps prevent outbreaks of contagious diseases and safeguards vulnerable pets in the community. For puppies and kittens, vaccination before rehoming is considered best practice, ensuring they are protected from the start of their new life.
Practical Tips for Pet Owners
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Start early: Book the first vaccination at 6–8 weeks.
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Complete the course: Don’t skip doses — incomplete vaccination can leave your pet unprotected.
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Keep records: Bring vaccination records to vet visits and when booking kennels or pet sitters.
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Ask about lifestyle vaccines: Your vet can recommend extras based on your pet’s routine.
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Monitor after vaccination: Watch for mild side effects and call your vet if anything seems unusual.
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Consider titre testing: For some adult pets, this may help guide whether boosters are needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can indoor pets skip vaccinations?
Indoor pets are at lower risk, but not zero risk. Visitors, other pets, or accidental escapes can expose them to disease. Core vaccines are still recommended.
Q: Do vaccines cause the disease they protect against?
No. Modern vaccines use safe methods to stimulate immunity without causing illness in healthy pets.
Q: What happens if my pet misses a booster?
Contact your vet — in some cases, the course may need to be restarted to ensure proper protection.
Conclusion
Vaccinations are one of the most important steps you can take to protect your dog or cat’s health. Core vaccines defend against severe and contagious diseases, while non-core vaccines are tailored to lifestyle and risk. Starting at 6–8 weeks of age, following the full course, and maintaining regular boosters will keep your pet safe throughout life. By vaccinating, you not only protect your own pet but also contribute to the overall health of the wider animal community.