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Which vaccines are essential for my strictly indoor cat's health?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 5 years and 1 month old | 13 lbs

What vacs do u recommend for a 24/7 indoor cat.. are all truly needed? never exposed to outdoor cats. ty

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 11th, 2018

Rabies is required by law, even for strictly indoor cats, and if Stormy were to accidentally bite someone (for example, if he was injured and painful) a quarantine or euthanasia is recommended by the CDC. The FVRCP vaccine is recommended by the American Association for Feline Practitioners as well - I have seen cats get upper respiratory infections from contact through a window screen, or if you are ever in contact with another cat you could carry the viruses home. The veterinary clinic is also unfortunately a place where exposure to an upper respiratory virus could occur. FeLV vaccine is probably not necessary since it needs to be spread through very direct contact.

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    Answered By Cara, DVM, cVMA

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 11th, 2017

    Yes! Depending on your state, cats require Rabies vaccinations in accordance with local laws, even if they are indoor. It is also recommended that indoor cats be vaccination for Feline Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia as they are all highly contagious diseases that may be life-threatening in cats. It would minimize Daisy's risk in the event that she accidentally got outside. Indoor-outdoor cats are recommended to be vaccinated for Feline Leukemia Virus as well, as that is spread by contact with other cats. I hope that helps!

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    Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

    Veterinary Technician

    Published on January 31st, 2020

    Yes, even indoor-only cats should be vaccinated as you and visitors can potentially transmit illnesses to them, and going outside can also transmit illnesses. Most states also require a rabies vaccination by law.

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    Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 8th, 2019

    Hello. Did she have vaccinations as a kitten? If so, you probably do not need the usual cat vaccinations. But I would keep up on the rabies vaccinations. With children, & especially with any friends that may come over, if Queeny were to bite or scratch a child, all you need is for one parent to over-react. At least booster her rabies with a 3 year vaccine. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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