For every devoted cat owner, ensuring the long-term health and happiness of their feline companion is a top priority. Protecting cats from infectious diseases remains essential in Dubai because the city contains cats that live indoors and outdoors with different levels of freedom. Preventive veterinary medicine relies on vaccinations as its fundamental protection, which defends pets from dangerous diseases that could be fatal.
At Modern Vet, our commitment to providing the highest standard of care is strengthened by our collaboration with Zoetis, the world’s largest producer of medicines and vaccines for pets. Our strategic partnership allows us to provide the most advanced and effective vaccine protocols, which we customize for each feline patient according to their unique requirements.
This guide provides complete information about cat vaccinations by explaining their essential role in disease prevention, showing which diseases they protect against, presenting a standard vaccination plan, and resolving typical questions to help you choose the best care for your pet.
Key Reasons Why Your Cat Needs Vaccinations:
Protect Against Fatal Diseases Like Rabies And Feline Distemper
Ensure Compliance With UAE Vaccination Requirements
Prevent Airborne Infections That Can Reach Indoor Cats
Benefit From Scientifically Proven Zoetis Vaccines
Defend Against Feline Herpesvirus And Calicivirus (“Cat Flu”)
Prevent Spread Of Zoonotic Diseases That Endanger Humans
Shield From Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) And FIV
Provide Lasting Protection With Safe, Tested Protocols
Reduce Risk Of Severe Illness, Pain, And Costly Treatments
Customized Vaccine Plans Based On Lifestyle & Risk
Support Long-Term Health And Strong Immunity
Access Expert Feline Veterinary Care At Modern Vet

Why Vaccination is Non-Negotiable?
People might question whether an apparently healthy indoor cat requires vaccinations, yet numerous dangerous feline diseases spread through airborne viruses and pathogens which enter homes through clothing, shoes and other pets. Cats who stay indoors still face various dangers despite their lack of outdoor exposure.
The process of vaccination in cats involves giving them a pathogen that has been altered or made harmless to their immune system. This stimulates the body to produce antibodies and memory cells, preparing it to swiftly and effectively fight off a future infection without the cat having to suffer from the actual disease.
The absence of preventive measures makes cats vulnerable to severe diseases, which can lead to severe pain, costly veterinary bills and potentially deadly results. The feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) lead to severe long-term health issues, but Rabies remains a deadly disease which threatens human health.
Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines
Veterinarians divide feline vaccines into two primary categories, which include core and non-core vaccines. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), together with the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), supports this classification system, which helps veterinarians create customized vaccination plans according to your cat’s specific life circumstances and disease exposure risks.
Core Vaccines
Core vaccines are recommended for all cats, regardless of their lifestyle, due to the widespread and severe nature of the diseases they prevent.

- Feline Panleukopenia (FPV): The disease Feline Panleukopenia (FPV), also known as feline distemper, is a highly contagious viral disease that leads to fatal outcomes. The parasite attacks the bone marrow and intestines of cats, resulting in severe vomiting and diarrhea, dangerous dehydration and a life-threatening decrease in white blood cells. The virus survives well outside human bodies, which makes vaccination the best way to protect against it.
- Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV): The two main viruses which cause “cat flu” are Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) and Feline Calicivirus (FCV). These viruses are responsible for the common and highly contagious upper respiratory infection known as “cat flu”. The symptoms include sneezing, nasal discharge, conjunctivitis and painful oral ulcers. The viruses cause most cats to recover, but they create permanent respiratory problems and pneumonia when they reach their most severe stage. Once infected with FHV-1, a cat becomes a lifelong carrier. The FVRCP combination vaccine provides protection against FPV, FHV-1 and FCV.
- Rabies: The disease list includes Rabies, which represents a fatal viral infection that impacts the nervous system of all mammals, including human beings. Transmission typically occurs through the bite of an infected animal. Given the severity of the disease and its potential for human transmission, rabies vaccination is often mandated by law.
Non-Core Vaccines
- The decision to give non-core vaccines depends on a cat’s specific risk profile, which takes into account outdoor access, multi-cat living situations, and boarding facility stays.
- The Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) represents a major retrovirus which compromises feline immune function, thus creating vulnerability to multiple infections, anemia and cancer development. It is a leading cause of death in cats. The virus is primarily transmitted through saliva during mutual grooming, sharing food and water bowls, and bite wounds. The AAFP considers the FeLV vaccine a core vaccine for all kittens due to their increased susceptibility. For adult cats, the need for this vaccine is determined by their lifestyle.
- The Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) operates like human HIV because it damages the immune system, which makes cats susceptible to additional infections. It is mainly transmitted through deep bite wounds, making outdoor, unneutered male cats the most at-risk group. While a vaccine is available, its use is carefully considered by veterinarians as it can interfere with future FIV testing.
- The Chlamydophila felis and Bordetella bronchiseptica cause respiratory infections that mainly affect multi-cat facilities, which include shelters and catteries. Vaccination may be recommended for cats in these higher-risk situations.
Services Offered At A Cat Vaccination Clinic Include:
Kitten & Adult Cat Vaccination Programs
Tailored Vaccine Plans Based On Indoor/Outdoor Lifestyle
Annual & Triennial Booster Schedules
Health Assessments Prior To Vaccination
Rabies Vaccination Compliance (UAE Legal Requirement)
Zoetis-Backed Vaccine Quality & Safety Assurance
FVRCP Combination Vaccine (Panleukopenia, Herpesvirus, Calicivirus)
Expert Vaccine Administration & Monitoring
Feline Leukemia (FeLV) & FIV Protection
Post-Vaccination Observation & Care Guidance
Non-Core Vaccines For High-Risk Cats (Bordetella, Chlamydophila)
24/7 Access To Veterinary Support At Modern Vet

The Recommended Cat Vaccination Schedule
The following is a general vaccination schedule, but it is crucial to consult with your veterinarian to create a personalized plan for your cat. The most suitable method will depend on your cat’s current age, medical history and present living situation.
Kittens (up to 1 year of age):
Kittens get their first defence from their mother’s milk, but this protection fades away during their first few months of life. The kitten vaccination series is designed to build their own robust immunity.
- 6-8 weeks: FVRCP (first dose), FeLV (first dose, especially for at-risk kittens)
- 10-12 weeks: FVRCP (second dose), FeLV (second dose)
- 14-16 weeks: FVRCP (third dose), Rabies (first dose), FeLV booster
- One year after the initial series: FVRCP booster, Rabies booster, FeLV booster (for at-risk cats)
Adult and Senior Cats (Over one year old):
- FVRCP and Rabies: Boosters are typically given every 1-3 years, depending on the specific vaccine used and local regulations.
- FeLV: Recommended annually or every two years for cats with an ongoing risk of exposure.
Vaccine Safety and Contraindications
Our partnership with Zoetis enables the production of vaccines through a strict manufacturing process which guarantees both safety and effectiveness. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, though they are rare.
Mild side effects are the most common and are usually short-lived. These can include:
- Slight fever
- Lethargy or reduced appetite
The area where the injection was given might become tender, and a small swelling could appear.
Facial swelling, breathing difficulties and collapse represent serious allergic reactions which need urgent veterinary care, although they occur rarely.
The following situations need delays in vaccination procedures. The following conditions represent contraindications for this treatment:
- A known allergy to a vaccine component.
- A person who had a previous severe allergic reaction to a vaccine.
- Current illness or fever.
The use of live vaccines is not advised for pregnant women.
It is crucial to have an open discussion with your veterinarian about your cat’s health history before any vaccinations are administered.
The Power of Partnership: Zoetis & Modern Vet
Our collaboration with Zoetis allows us to provide your cat with vaccines that are at the forefront of veterinary technology. Zoetis operates as a worldwide animal health leader which focuses on developing innovative solutions for pet care. The company dedicates major financial resources to developing vaccines through research and development to achieve maximum protection and absolute user safety. By choosing Modern Vet, you are choosing a veterinary practice that partners with the best in the industry to deliver superior preventative care.
Conclusion
Vaccines are a low-cost, easy, and effective method of offering your cat a lifetime of protection against diseases that are preventable. While the upfront expense of the entire vaccine regimen is a tiny investment compared to the emotional and monetary expense of treating a life-threatening disease, it is wise prevention nonetheless. Staying up to date with vaccinations for your cat protects not only the health of the animal you are entrusted with but also the health of the whole feline community of Dubai.
Don’t wait until it is too late. Make an appointment today for a vaccination for your kitten or cat at Modern Vet. Trained vets will evaluate the individual requirements of your cat and, in consultation with Zoetis, offer a personalized vaccination protocol that will maintain them in health for a long and happy life. Call us now or book online to make an appointment and give your feline companion the gift of a guardian shield.
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