Price of kitten vaccinations

Having a cat can be a little treatment for happiness to many people. But, to be a responsible owner of a cat implies also some financial obligations. If you are not in a position, or are not willing to meet these costs, it may be better not to take home a cat. It may be tough to resist that silky cute kitten staying fearful in the box, or that friendly stray on the street who wants to come home with you, but if you can't afford to give it the minimal necessities, you are probably not doing a favor to that cat or kitten.

If your cat hasn't been vaccinated when you obtained it, you will need to organize it through your vet. Vaccinations are a good chance to meet your vet and introduce him to your new cat. Generally, medium price of kitten vaccinations is about of $60.

Kittens require three vaccinations in their first year. But be aware that vaccinations are not recommended for kittens being under six weeks, except in extreme situations (orphaned kittens, or kittens in a high-risk environment).

Traditionally, cats have been received a "trivalent vaccine", which contains agents against herpes virus, feline panleukopenia (FRCP) and feline calicivirus. All of these agents are included in one shot of vaccine. These are considered "core" vaccines, being essential for all cats. A 4-way vaccine, which adds Feline Pneumonitis (Chlamydia) is also available for cats at risk of contracting the latter (primarily show cats).

Typical costs
The average price of kitten vaccinations ranges from $45 to $85 and up in the first year of life, and from $10 to $35 and up per year in the following years.

The cost varies, depending on which vaccinations are given and whether they are done at a veterinarian's office or at a clinic which practices low-cost vaccination (generally, these clinics are run by a local government or a humane organization).

What should be included
Apart of an adult cat vaccination, kittens usually receive a combination vaccine for feline distemper, rhinotracheitis and calcivirus at seven weeks, 10 weeks and 13 weeks from birth, with an independent rabies vaccine at 12 or 13 weeks from birth. After that, they will receive boosters annually, although veterinarians sometimes recommend vaccinating cats less often (at every 3 years), especially for indoor cats, which are not exposed to other cats.


Additional costs
If the kittens live primarily outdoor or they are exposed to many other cats for a period of time, receive vaccines also for Feline Leukemia and Feline Infectious Peritonitis. Each extra shot of these vaccines will cost about $5 to $10.


Discounts
Most humane societies and shelters include the first rounds of vaccinations in the adoption fee.
It is possible to order vaccines online and vaccinate the kitten yourself, but it is important to order from a reliable company. At Doctors Foster & Smith Website (www.DrsFosterSmith.com) will find a guide on how to vaccinate a pet.


I you call the Humane Society, then they could offer discount vouchers you can purchase for the rabies shot (and also for spay/neutering costs). Just call your Humane Society for information. You just go in and purchase the vouchers directly from them. They will give you a list of vets that accept them, facilitating the process of finding a good veterinarian.


Shopping for cat vaccination
To find a good veterinarian, you could ask fellow cat owners, breeders or humane associations. Or, you can check the American Veterinary Medical Association to find a referral at your state's veterinary medical association.



To be sure you found a good vet, ask the veterinarian how long he/she has been practicing and how much continuing education he/she receives each year. After that, visit the clinic to look how clean it is, what attitude has the personnel and ask about policies and price of kitten vaccinations. Veterinary Partner Website (VeterinaryPartner.com) offers a guide on how to find a veterinarian and a list of questions to ask.