At Bull City Veterinary Hospital in Durham NC, we get it—vaccines can get confusing. What’s truly necessary? What’s optional? Do indoor cats even need shots? Pet parents ask these questions all the time, and we love helping you get clear answers. Whether you’re raising a brand-new puppy or keeping your senior kitty protected, staying up to date on pet vaccines is one of the easiest ways to protect your pet (and the rest of the family) from dangerous diseases such as rabies. 

Vaccines prevent serious diseases before they ever happen. In this blog, we’ll break down the core vaccines for dogs and cats, explain the vaccine schedule for puppies and kittens, and clarify why pet vaccines matter at every life stage.

Why Pet Vaccines Matter

Vaccines work by stimulating your pet’s immune system to recognize and defend itself against specific viruses or bacteria. They’re a cornerstone of preventive care—protecting not just your pet, but other animals (and in some cases, people) from contagious illness.

Vaccinations:

• Prevent life-threatening diseases
  
• Reduce the spread of illness in the community
  
• May be legally required (rabies)
  
• Can be tailored to lifestyle and exposure risk
  

Skipping vaccines puts your pet—and others—at risk. Rabies is a perfect example of this. Though it’s been drastically reduced by vaccines, it remains the deadliest disease on the planet, with a whopping 99 percent mortality rate when symptoms start. Even worse: there is no cure.  You can learn more about pet vaccinations from the American Veterinary Medical Association here.

Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines

Core Vaccines

These are considered essential for all pets, regardless of lifestyle.

Dogs:

• Rabies: Legally required in most states.
  
• Distemper: Part of the DHPP combo; affects respiratory, GI, and nervous systems.
  
• Parvovirus: Causes severe GI illness, especially dangerous in puppies.
  
• Adenovirus (Hepatitis): Protects the liver and respiratory system.
  

Cats:

• Rabies: Also legally required..
  
• Feline Panleukopenia (Distemper): Highly contagious and often fatal.
  
• Feline Calicivirus & Herpesvirus: Cause respiratory infections; included in FVRCP vaccine.
  

Non-Core (Lifestyle-Based) Vaccines

Recommended based on individual risk factors.

Dogs:

• Leptospirosis: Spread through water or wildlife urine; can infect humans too.
  
• Bordetella: Protects against kennel cough; required for boarding or daycare.
  
• Canine Influenza: Recommended for high-risk dogs.
  
• Lyme Disease: For dogs in tick-heavy regions.
  

Cats:

• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): Recommended for kittens and outdoor cats.
  
• Bordetella: May be considered for cats in shelters or group settings.
  

Our veterinarians will work with you to decide what’s best based on your pet’s lifestyle.

Vaccine Schedule for Puppies and Kittens

Young animals are especially vulnerable. They receive some immunity from their mother, but that fades fast. Timely vaccination is crucial. Puppies and kittens must complete the full series to build proper immunity. Your little buddy won’t be safe until they’ve finished their boosters  and your vet gives the all-clear.

Adult Pet Vaccine Guidelines

If your pet has already been through the initial series, your vet will recommend booster shots on a regular schedule. Some are annual, others are every three years, depending on various factors.

These include:

• Vaccine brand
  
• Pet’s age and health
  
• Risk level
• Location

Senior pets still need vaccines, but we may space them out or focus on essentials if their health is fragile. 

What Happens If You Skip a Vaccine?

Missed a shot? It’s not the end of the world—but it may mean restarting the series, especially for core vaccines in puppies or kittens. For adult pets, skipping boosters increases the risk of infection and may void boarding or daycare eligibility.

Let us know if you’re behind. We’ll help build a safe, effective catch-up plan.

Vaccine Safety and Side Effects

Vaccines are very safe for most pets. Minor side effects may include:

• Soreness at the injection site
  
• Mild lethargy or fever
  
• Temporary swelling
  

Severe allergic reactions are rare but not unheard of. If your pet experiences major side effects, such as swelling, vomiting, fever, or collapse, call us immediately.

Why Indoor Cats Still Need Vaccines

We hear it a lot: “My cat never goes outside—why vaccinate?” Even indoor cats can be exposed to airborne viruses, via insects, wildlife, or through open windows. Some viruses can be tracked in on your shoes or clothes. Fluffy still needs her vaccinations. You can read our prior blog on indoor cat care here.

Indoor cats benefit from core vaccines just as much as outdoor ones.

FAQs About Pet Vaccines

Are vaccines required by law?

Rabies is legally required in most states. Other vaccines may be required by boarding, grooming, or daycare facilities.

Can vaccines make my pet sick?

Mild side effects are possible but rare. The risks of disease far outweigh the risks of vaccination. The ASPCA also has some helpful information on vaccines here.

How much do vaccines cost?

Pricing varies depending on the vaccine, brand, and schedule. We’re happy to provide a custom quote and wellness plan.

Vaccination Is Prevention at Bull City Veterinary Hospital in Durham NC

At Bull City Veterinary Hospital in Durham NC, we believe in protecting pets before they get sick. That’s why we make pet vaccines simple, safe, and personalized. Whether you’re just starting your vaccine schedule for puppies and kittens or reviewing your senior pet’s plan, we’ll guide you every step of the way. Visit our Services page here for more information on our veterinary clinic and services.

Call today to schedule your pet’s next vaccine appointment and protect their health for years to come.

This blog is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized vaccine recommendations.