Vaccines and parasite prevention: when to do them and what happens if you skip them

Why vaccines matter in the first place

An indoor cat or dog doesn't live "in a sterile bubble." Even if your cat never goes outside, viruses can be brought into the home on your shoes, clothing, the carrier, or your hands. A dog comes into contact with the outdoors every single day: the stairwell, grass, other animals, puddles, soil.

Vaccines don't give a one-hundred-percent guarantee that your pet will never get sick. But they dramatically lower the risk of severe illness and death.

When to give a kitten or puppy its first vaccine

The first vaccination is usually done when they're young, often starting around 6 to 8 weeks, followed by a booster on schedule. The exact age and schedule depend on the vaccine, your pet's condition, and your vet's recommendations.

If you got your kitten or puppy off the street, from a shelter, or "secondhand," don't start by buying a vaccine yourself. An exam comes first. The vet will check overall condition, weight, temperature, and the presence of parasites, then suggest a safe schedule.

Do you need to deworm before vaccinating?

Deworming is often recommended before vaccination. But you shouldn't give medications "just in case" without knowing the animal's weight and condition. This matters especially for small, weakened, pregnant, or senior pets.

It's better to check with your vet: which product, what dose, and how many days before the shot.

The rabies vaccine: required or not?

The rabies vaccine matters not only for health but also for paperwork. It's often required for travel, shows, pet boarding, grooming, crossing borders, and official certificates.

Even if your pet is "an indoor animal that never goes anywhere," the rules may require an up-to-date vaccination. This is especially true if you're planning a flight or a trip abroad.

What to do if you missed a vaccine

Don't panic, and don't start a schedule on your own. Call the clinic and tell them:

• your pet's age;
• which vaccines it has already had;
• when the last vaccination was;
• whether you have a pet health record;
• whether your pet has been sick recently;
• whether a trip is planned.

The vet will tell you whether to continue the schedule or start over.

Treating for fleas, ticks, and worms

Parasites aren't just about itching. Ticks can carry dangerous infections, fleas cause allergies and transmit worms, and worms can go a long time without obvious symptoms.

How often to treat depends on the product, the season, your region, and your pet's lifestyle. Dogs that go out every day are usually treated regularly. Cats need protection too, even if they don't go outside, especially if there's a dog in the home.

My pet is lethargic after a vaccine: is that normal?

Mild drowsiness, slight tenderness at the injection site, or lower activity during the first day can be a normal reaction. But if your pet won't eat, is vomiting, develops severe weakness, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or a high fever, you need to contact your vet right away.