Indoor Pet Vaccines – What Every Home‑Bound Owner Should Know

Think your pet is safe because it never leaves the house? Not quite. Even indoor dogs and cats can catch serious diseases through visitors, other animals, or contaminated objects. Vaccines create a reliable shield that works whether your pet roams the yard or stays on the couch.

First, understand the difference between core and non‑core vaccines. Core shots protect against illnesses that are common, severe, or hard to treat – they’re recommended for all pets, regardless of lifestyle. Non‑core shots target risks that depend on where you live, your pet’s activities, or exposure to specific animals. For indoor pets, core vaccines are the minimum you should never skip.

Core Vaccines for Dogs

Most vets suggest three core shots for dogs: canine distemper, canine parvovirus, and canine adenovirus (the “DHPP” combo). These protect against respiratory, gastrointestinal, and liver diseases that can spread through air, fur, or even a stray shoe. Puppies start the series at 6‑8 weeks old, getting a booster every 2‑4 weeks until they’re about 16 weeks. After the initial series, a booster at one year and then every three years keeps immunity strong.

If your dog occasionally meets other animals – at the park, a friend's house, or a vet visit – consider adding the rabies vaccine. Rabies is required by law in most UK regions and protects against a fatal virus that can be transmitted by bites.

Core Vaccines for Cats

For cats, the core trio includes feline panleukopenia, feline calicivirus, and feline herpesvirus (the “FVRCP” combo). These guard against severe gastrointestinal upset, eye and nose infections, and respiratory problems that can linger in a house with multiple cats or even on a vet's examination table. Kittens begin at 6‑8 weeks, with boosters every 2‑4 weeks until 16 weeks, then a one‑year booster and a three‑year schedule after that.

Rabies is also a core vaccine for cats in many areas. Even if your cat never goes outside, a stray or a visiting animal could bring the virus in, making vaccination a smart safety net.

Beyond the core list, talk to your vet about non‑core options like bordetella (kennel cough) or leptospirosis if your indoor pet has occasional outdoor exposure. The key is a personalized plan that matches your pet’s real‑world risks.

Now, how do you keep the schedule on track? Set reminders on your phone or use a pet‑care app. Keep a printed record in a folder that you bring to every vet visit. Most vets will send a quick email before a booster is due – treat that as your cue to book an appointment.

Vaccines are safe, but like any injection, they can cause mild side effects: a brief sore spot, a little lethargy, or a low‑grade fever. These usually pass within a day. If your pet shows persistent vomiting, severe swelling, or trouble breathing, call your vet right away.

Finally, remember that vaccines work best when paired with good hygiene. Wash your hands after handling pet supplies, clean feeding bowls regularly, and keep the house free of rodent droppings. Even indoor pets benefit from a clean environment that reduces the chance of disease.

By staying on top of the core vaccine schedule, you give your indoor companion the same level of protection as a dog or cat that spends hours outside. It’s a small effort that pays off in years of happy, healthy cuddles.