Vaccinations

Vaccinations play an important role in keeping your pet healthy and protected from a range of preventable diseases. They are one of the simplest ways to support your pet’s long-term wellbeing and help them live a happy, active life. 

Some illnesses can be serious, but vaccination helps reduce the risk and gives your pet the best possible protection. Taking a preventative approach is not only safer for your pet, but also provides peace of mind for you as an owner. 

Every vaccination appointment includes a full general health check. This gives us the opportunity to assess your pet’s overall health and take the time to talk through any questions or concerns you may have. 

Puppy & Dog Vaccinations 

When should I vaccinate my puppy? 

Most dogs receive three puppy vaccinations, followed by a yearly booster to maintain protection as they grow. Puppy vaccinations are usually given at: 

• 6–8 weeks (C3 Vaccination) – typically given by the breeder 

• 10–12 weeks (C5 Vaccination) 

• 14–16 weeks (C5 Vaccination) 

At your appointment, we’ll talk through your dog’s individual needs and create a vaccination plan tailored to their lifestyle and health. 

What is a C3 vaccination? 

A C3 (core) vaccination protects your dog against three serious but preventable diseases: 

Canine Parvovirus 

Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus that affects the gastrointestinal system. It can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. The virus can survive in the environment for long periods, which is why prevention through vaccination is so important. 

Young puppies and unvaccinated dogs are most at risk. We recommend keeping puppies in a safe home environment and avoiding public spaces until two weeks after their final puppy vaccination. 

Canine Distemper Virus 

Canine distemper is now uncommon in Western Australia due to widespread vaccination, but it can still occur. It often starts with respiratory and digestive signs before affecting the nervous system. While supportive care is available, there is no specific cure, which makes prevention essential. 

Infectious Canine Hepatitis (Adenovirus) 

This virus affects the liver and can cause a range of symptoms including lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, and pain. While rare, it can lead to long-term health issues, which is why ongoing vaccination remains important. 

What is a C5 vaccination? 

A C5 vaccination includes everything covered by a C3, with added protection against the main causes of canine cough: 

• Parainfluenza virus 

• Bordetella bronchiseptica 

Canine cough often presents as a dry, persistent cough. Vaccination doesn’t always prevent dogs from catching it, but it significantly reduces the severity and length of illness. Vaccinated dogs are also much less likely to develop complications such as pneumonia. 

Kitten & Cat Vaccinations 

When should I vaccinate my kitten? 

A cat’s vaccination schedule depends on their lifestyle, including whether they live indoors, go outdoors, or have had previous exposure to other cats. At your appointment, we’ll discuss your cat’s lifestyle and help create a vaccination plan that’s right for them. 

Most kittens receive three initial vaccinations, followed by ongoing boosters, which we tailor based on your cat’s lifestyle and individual risk. 

Kittens are usually vaccinated at: 

● 6–8 weeks (F3 Vaccination) 

● 10–12 weeks (F3 Vaccination) 

● 14–16 weeks (F3 Vaccination) 

What is an F3 vaccination? 

F3 (core) vaccination protects kittens against three common and preventable feline diseases such as 

Feline Calicivirus 

Calicivirus is one of the main causes of cat flu. Symptoms are similar to a cold, such as sneezing and fever, and in some cases can progress to mouth ulcers, reduced appetite, and lethargy. Vaccination doesn’t always prevent infection, but it greatly reduces how severe and long-lasting symptoms are. 

Feline Panleukopenia Virus (FPV) 

FPV is a highly contagious virus that affects rapidly dividing cells in the body, particularly the gut and bone marrow. It can cause vomiting, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Vaccination provides strong protection and is an important part of keeping cats healthy.

Feline Herpesvirus (FHV) 

FHV is another common cause of cat flu, often leading to sneezing, nasal discharge, eye infections, and fever. Cats that become infected can carry the virus for life, with flare-ups sometimes occurring during periods of stress. Vaccination helps reduce the severity and frequency of symptoms. 

Are there other vaccinations my cat may need?

Depending on your cat’s lifestyle and exposure risk, additional vaccinations may be recommended, these include: 

Chlamydophila felis 

This bacterial infection can cause conjunctivitis and, in young kittens, more serious respiratory illness. Vaccination is often recommended for cats in high-density environments such as shelters or breeding catteries. 

Feline Leukaemia Virus (FeLV) 

FeLV affects the immune system and can increase the risk of serious illness over time. It is spread through close contact between cats, such as grooming or sharing food and water bowls. Vaccination may be recommended for cats that spend time outdoors or live with other cats. 

Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) 

FIV is commonly spread through bite wounds and is more often seen in adult cats with outdoor access. While vaccination offers some protection, the most effective way to reduce risk is keeping cats indoors and minimising exposure to fights.