Guide to puppy and kitten vaccinations in Australia

Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is exciting. There are lots of firsts to enjoy – first cuddles, first vet visit, and their first vaccinations. Getting vaccinated early helps protect young pets when their immune system is still developing.

Why vaccinating your pet is important

Vaccinations keep your puppy or kitten safe from serious and sometimes deadly diseases. Young pets have weak immune systems and can get sick more easily. Vaccines help their bodies build strong protection before they meet common illnesses.

Vaccinating also helps protect other pets and people by stopping the spread of disease. Missing or delaying vaccines can put your pet at risk of preventable sickness, which may lead to expensive treatments or even life-threatening problems.

When do pet vaccinations usually begin

In Australia, puppies and kittens normally start their vaccinations around 6 to 8 weeks old. This is when the natural immunity from their mother begins to fade and they become more at risk of infections.

How to prepare for a vaccination appointment

A little preparation can help make the visit calm and stress free.

Try these tips:

• bring treats and a blanket for comfort
• keep puppies away from busy dog parks until they are fully vaccinated
• ask your vet questions about side effects or schedules
• allow extra time in case your pet needs reassurance

Why one vaccination is not enough

A single shot is not enough to build strong protection. Puppies and kittens receive a series of vaccinations, typically given every 3–4 weeks, until they are about 14–16 weeks old. These boosters help build lasting immunity as their maternal antibodies wear off.

What core vaccines cover for puppies and kittens

Core vaccines for puppies protect against

• Canine parvovirus
• Canine distemper
• Canine hepatitis (adenovirus)

Core vaccines for kittens protect against

• Feline panleukopenia
• Feline herpesvirus
• Feline calicivirus

When your pet might need extra vaccines

Some pets need additional vaccines based on their lifestyle and exposure. For example:

• Dogs that go to boarding, puppy school or dog parks may need kennel cough vaccines
• Kittens that spend time outdoors may be recommended the FeLV vaccine

Speak with your vet if you are unsure which vaccines suit your pet’s routine and environment.

What to expect after a vaccination

After a vaccination, your puppy or kitten may

• be a little sleepy
• feel mild soreness at the injection site
• be less active for a short time

These reactions are usually mild and temporary. Serious side effects are rare and vaccinations are much safer than the diseases they prevent.

Why vaccination records matter

It’s a good idea to keep your puppy or kitten’s vaccination records safe. They show what shots your pet has had and when the next ones are due.

You’ll need them for boarding, grooming, day care, dog parks, or training classes. They also help your vet plan boosters, look after your pet if they get sick, and support insurance claims.

Many pet owners keep digital copies through their vet or a pet app so they’re easy to access and share.

How much do puppy and kitten vaccinations cost in Australia

Vaccination costs for puppies and kittens can vary depending on your vet and location. Typically, a full puppy vaccination course costs around $150 to $250 for the complete series of core shots. For kittens, the full set of vaccinations usually costs about $150 to $250, with individual visits often around $60 to $100 including consultation fees.*

Extra vaccines beyond the core shots, such as kennel cough or feline leukemia vaccines, can add to the total cost. Prices can also differ between cities and regional areas. It’s a good idea to contact your vet before your appointment so you can plan your budget.

Why keeping vaccinations on track is important

Keeping your pet’s vaccinations up to date protects them from serious but preventable diseases. It supports their long-term health, keeps their medical records complete and helps avoid issues with pet insurance claims related to preventable illnesses.

Working closely with your vet and following recommended schedules gives you peace of mind knowing you are helping your puppy or kitten stay healthy and protected from day one.

*Greencross Vets