Pets · Dogs & cats
Your puppy’s and kitten’s first-year vaccination checklist
Dr. Colleta Chepkosgei, BVM
· 5 min read
The first year sets your pet up for life. A simple checklist helps you know which vaccines are due, when — and what to bring to each visit.
Why the first year matters
Puppies and kittens get some protection from their mother’s milk, but it fades in the first weeks of life. A course of vaccines builds their own immunity before they meet other animals.
Until the course is complete, keep your puppy or kitten away from unknown dogs and cats, and from places where other animals roam.
A typical first-year schedule
6–8 weeksFirst visit
First vaccination and a full health check. Start a regular deworming routine.
10–12 weeksSecond visit
Second vaccination in the course.
12–16 weeksThird visit
Final puppy or kitten vaccination, and rabies vaccination.
12 monthsBooster
First booster, and a review of the year ahead.
What to bring to each visit
- The vaccination card or the breeder’s records
- Names and dates of any dewormers or medicines given
- Notes on eating, toileting and behaviour
- A lead, a carrier or a closed room ready
Between visits
- Keep up regular deworming as advised.
- Check for fleas and ticks after walks and outdoor play.
- Handle paws, ears and mouth gently each day so check-ups are easier.
- Call if your pet stops eating, vomits repeatedly or has diarrhoea.
