Complete guide
Cat vaccination schedule: kitten jabs to annual boosters
The standard UK cat vaccination schedule starts at around 9 weeks old, with a second injection at 12 weeks and annual boosters from the following year. Here's the full cats vaccination schedule, what each jab covers, and how it differs for indoor and outdoor cats.
The standard cat vaccinations UK timeline
- ~9 weeks: first vaccination (cat flu + panleukopenia, plus FeLV for outdoor cats)
- ~12 weeks: second vaccination, completing the primary course
- ~1 week after the second jab: full immunity develops — until then, keep kittens away from unvaccinated cats
- 1 year later: first annual booster
- Every year: annual booster (some components may move to a 3-yearly cycle — your vet will advise)
What cat vaccines actually cover
Core cat vaccinations protect against feline herpesvirus and calicivirus — together known as cat flu — and feline panleukopenia, a severe and often fatal gut infection. The feline leukaemia (FeLV) vaccine is usually added for cats that go outdoors, since the virus spreads through close contact with infected cats.
Indoor cats: still worth vaccinating?
Cat flu viruses are hardy enough to hitch a ride indoors on shoes and clothing, so most vets still recommend the core course for indoor-only cats. Where the schedule genuinely flexes is FeLV — a strictly indoor cat with no contact with other cats is at very low risk, and your vet may suggest leaving it out.
Cat booster shots: what happens each year
The annual visit isn't only the injection — it doubles as a health check, which for cats (who hide illness well) is often the more valuable half of the appointment. If you're unsure whether your cat's boosters are up to date, your practice can check their record and restart the course if needed.
Find a vet for cat vaccinations near you →
Frequently asked questions
What is the cat vaccination schedule in the UK?
Kittens usually get their first vaccination at around 9 weeks, a second at 12 weeks, then a first booster a year later and annual boosters after that. Exact timings vary slightly by vaccine brand and practice.
What do cat vaccinations cover?
The core UK cat vaccines cover feline herpesvirus and calicivirus (together, 'cat flu') and feline panleukopenia (feline infectious enteritis). Feline leukaemia (FeLV) is commonly added for cats that go outdoors.
Do indoor cats need vaccinations?
Core vaccines are still generally recommended for indoor cats, since cat flu viruses can be carried in on clothing and shoes. The leukaemia vaccine matters most for cats with outdoor access — your vet can tailor the schedule.
Does my cat need a rabies vaccine?
Only if travelling abroad under the pet travel scheme — the UK is rabies-free, so it's not part of the routine cat vaccination schedule here.