Why Puppies And Kittens Need So Many Vet Visits

When you bring home a new puppy or kitten, vaccinations are one of the most important parts of keeping them healthy. But many pet owners wonder—why do these young animals need multiple rounds of the same vaccine, also known as boosters?

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The answer lies in how their immune systems develop. Puppies and kittens are born with some protection from their mother’s antibodies, which help them fight off disease early on. However, those maternal antibodies can interfere with vaccines and we do not know exactly when those protective antibodies leave their system. That’s why we recommend a series of boosters—usually given every 3 weeks starting at 6 weeks and ending around 16 weeks of age. This schedule ensures the vaccines take effect once the maternal antibodies begin to fade.

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Each booster dose helps “train” the immune system to recognize and respond to specific diseases like parvovirus, distemper, and feline panleukopenia. Repeated exposure through boosters builds a strong, lasting immunity that one dose alone might not provide. Without the full booster series, your pet may remain vulnerable to potentially deadly infections.

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After the initial puppy or kitten series, most booster shots are typically given again at one year, then every one to three years depending on the vaccine and your vet’s guidance. So while all the vet visits may seem like a lot, they’re a vital part of raising a healthy pet.