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Do I need to vaccinate an 8-year-old indoor cat I'm adopting?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 0 lbs

I might adopt an 8 year old cat. She never got any vaccines because she is a house cat and was never outside, so the owners didn't consider it necessary. They said she's in perfect condition and only had to go to the vet once because she ate sth bad. Should I adopt her like this (she wouldn't be outside of our home either) or should I take her to the vet and let it get vaccinated? Thank you!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2017

I would have her vaccinated at least once and checked by your veterinarian to make sure everything is all right and she does have any health issue. Basic vaccination would include RCP (herpesvirus, calicivirus and panleucopenia virus) and FeLV (leukemia virus). Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on November 25th, 2017

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Yes, cats should be vaccinated. The most common and important ones are the FeLV, rabies, panleukopenia virus and calicivirus. I highly recommend you have her evaluated by your veterinarian to start her on a vaccination schedule. At the same time, your veterinarian could also address other things that have to do with basic care like deworming and flea prevention, among other things. Good luck!

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