Rabies Shots for Cats

Rabies is a fatal disease that can infect cats and be transmitted to humans. Most states require that cats have rabies shots.

  1. Time Frame

    • Kittens generally must be vaccinated against rabies once they are at least 12 weeks old and before they are 6 months old. Then, the shot may be boosted a year later. Depending on local laws, cats must then be vaccinated every year or every three years.

    Benefits

    • While no vaccine can be 100 percent effective, the rabies shot has preven highly effective.

    Considerations

    • Because rabies is such a serious disease, it is important to keep records of the rabies vaccination handy. They may be needed if your cat is bitten or bites somebody, or as proof of vaccination should you need to board or hospitalize your cat.

    Misconceptions

    • Even a vaccinated cat should be taken to a veterinarian if it is bitten by a wild animal, especially if the bite is near your cat's head.

    Warning

    • Some cats have developed cancer after being given a rabies shot. For this reason, veterinarians should always administer the shot as far as possible from the torso (rear right leg, below the knee) and owners should keep a watchful eye on the injection site for suspicious lumps that do not go away.