The Truth About Cat Vaccines: What Every Cat Parent Needs to Know (And What to Do Instead)

If you have a cat, you've probably gotten one of those reminder cards from the vet saying, "It's time for your cat's shots!" And like most responsible pet owners, you probably think, "Well, of course! Better safe than sorry."

But what if I told you that many cats are being over-vaccinated, and not only is it unnecessary—it could actually be harmful?

Let me tell you a quick story.

A Story That Changed My Perspective

A friend of mine adopted two kittens from a rescue. They came fully vaccinated—two rounds of FVRCP and a rabies shot. A year later, she got a text from her vet saying it was time for their boosters. She didn’t think twice and scheduled the appointment.

But then she started reading about vaccine duration in cats. She learned that many core vaccines last for 7 years or more, sometimes even a lifetime. Yet, many vets still push for annual or triennial shots.
She started asking questions, and her vet’s response? "This is just the standard protocol."

That’s when it clicked—she had never questioned the schedule before. And once she did, she realized she might be giving her cats vaccines they didn’t actually need.

This isn’t about being "anti-vaccine." Vaccines are important. But more doesn’t always mean better—especially when it comes to your cat’s health.

The Truth About Cat Vaccines

For some vaccines, one good shot in kittenhood provides lifelong immunity.
So why are so many cats getting vaccinated over and over again?

Mostly because it’s routine.

But here’s what most people don’t realize:

1. Your cat’s immune system has memory.

If a vaccine works, the body remembers it for life. Just like humans don’t get a polio shot every year, cats don’t need constant boosters for some diseases.

2. Indoor cats have an extremely low risk of exposure.

If your cat never interacts with other animals, what are they even being vaccinated against?

3. Over-vaccination has risks.

Cats can develop injection-site tumors, allergies, and immune system disorders from unnecessary vaccines.

The Shift in Perspective

Instead of blindly following a reminder card, what if we started asking:

• Does my cat actually need this vaccine?
• Can I check their immunity with a titer test instead?
• What are the real risks vs. benefits?

Just because a system has been in place for years doesn’t mean it’s always right. Many vets are shifting their approach, recommending fewer vaccines and more individual assessments. But it’s up to us as pet owners to be informed and advocate for our cats.

What You Can Do Next

1. Minimize Vaccinations – Only vaccinate when necessary, and use titer tests instead of blindly revaccinating.
2. Limit Toxins – Avoid unnecessary flea treatments, deworming, and medications unless there’s a clear need.
3. Feed a Proper Diet – Cats need high-protein, high-fat, low-carb diets. Avoid dry food as much as possible and prioritize raw, gently cooked, or high-quality canned wet food.

These simple changes can definitely improve your cat’s quality of life and lifespan. The bottom line? Vaccines are important, but unnecessary vaccines aren’t. Your cat deserves the right protection—not just another routine shot.

And for an extra wellness boost, consider an Immune System Support protocol.
 

In The Holistic Cat Club, I help cat parents like you structure and deliver all kinds of natural, herbal remedies to support cats from the inside out, so that they can live the long, happy, extraordinary life they were meant to live by your side!