Kittens in Saudi Arabia should start their core vaccines at 6 to 8 weeks of age, with boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks, then adult boosters every 1 to 3 years. The core feline vaccine (FVRCP) and rabies are recommended for essentially all cats, including indoor cats. Here is a schedule you can follow with your veterinarian.
Do indoor cats need vaccines?
Yes, indoor cats still need core vaccines. Viruses can enter your home on clothing and shoes, cats sometimes slip outside, and any cat may eventually need boarding or veterinary hospitalization where proof of vaccination is required. Core protection is inexpensive insurance against severe disease.
Core vs. lifestyle vaccines for cats
Core vaccines
- Feline viral rhinotracheitis (feline herpesvirus)
- Feline calicivirus
- Feline panleukopenia (feline distemper)
- Rabies (recommended and required for travel)
Lifestyle (non-core) vaccines
- Feline leukemia virus (FeLV), especially for cats with any outdoor access or contact with other cats
- Other vaccines based on your veterinarian's risk assessment
Kitten vaccination schedule
Kittens need a series rather than a single shot because maternal antibodies interfere with early doses. A typical schedule looks like this:
- 16-8 weeks: First FVRCP
- 210-12 weeks: Second FVRCP; consider FeLV for at-risk kittens
- 314-16 weeks: Third FVRCP and rabies vaccine
- 41 year later: FVRCP and rabies boosters
Adult cat boosters
Adult cats need periodic boosters to keep immunity strong, generally every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine and your veterinarian's protocol. Combining boosters with an annual wellness exam lets your vet catch early signs of dental disease, kidney changes, and weight problems before they become serious.
Vaccination day is also a wellness day — it is the perfect moment to weigh your cat, check the teeth, and ask questions.
VetWay (فيت واي) offers at-home cat vaccination in Riyadh, which is far less stressful than a carrier and a car ride for most cats. Our team can vaccinate, examine, and update your records without your cat ever leaving home.
When should kittens get their first vaccine?
Kittens typically receive their first FVRCP vaccine at 6 to 8 weeks, followed by boosters every 3 to 4 weeks until around 16 weeks.
Does my indoor-only cat really need vaccines?
Yes. Core vaccines are recommended even for indoor cats because viruses can enter the home and cats sometimes escape or need boarding and hospitalization.
How often do adult cats need boosters?
Adult boosters are usually given every 1 to 3 years depending on the vaccine and your veterinarian's protocol.
Can VetWay vaccinate my cat at home?
Yes. VetWay provides at-home cat vaccination in Riyadh, which reduces stress and includes a quick wellness check.
