The core vaccines
The 2020 AAHA and AAFP feline guidelines treat panleukopenia (FPV), herpesvirus (FHV-1) and calicivirus (FCV) as core vaccines, usually given together as one combination shot. Rabies is given as your state requires. FeLV (feline leukemia) is core for every kitten up to and including one year of age.
How many visits
The guidelines space kitten doses 2 to 4 weeks apart, continuing until your kitten is at least 16 weeks old, with a booster of the combination vaccine at 6 months. A kitten adopted from a shelter may already have had some doses, so bring the records.
Ways to save
- Shelters often vaccinate before adoption
- Some shelters and pet stores host low-cost vaccine clinics
- Ask whether the first visit can include the exam, the first shots and a fecal test together
Before you book
Phone two clinics and ask each for an itemized quote. Ask what the price covers, what might be added once your cat is examined or asleep, and whether they will call you before adding anything. A quote with every line written out is the only fair way to compare.
Prices shared by cat owners
Where these numbers come from
We never estimate or copy prices from elsewhere. Every figure on this page was shared by a cat owner, and a typical price only shows once five owners have shared one. Health facts on this page come from:
- AAHA and AAFP, 2020 Feline Vaccination Guidelines: frequently asked questions. Checked October 25, 2026.
Prices differ a lot between towns and clinics, so treat these as a starting point and ask your vet for a quote.
