Bringing home a new puppy or kitten is exciting, but it can also come with lots of questions—especially about vaccines. Vaccinations are one of the most important ways to protect young pets from serious, preventable diseases and give them a healthy start in life. Understanding which vaccines your puppy or kitten needs (and when) can help you feel confident you’re doing the best for your new family member. 

Why Vaccines Matter

Puppies and kittens are born with some immunity from their mother, but that protection fades quickly. Vaccines help build their own immune systems so they’re protected before being exposed to common illnesses. Many of these diseases are highly contagious and can be life-threatening, especially for young animals. 

Puppy Vaccines: What and When

Most puppies start their vaccines around 6–8 weeks of age, followed by boosters every few weeks until they’re about 16 weeks old. 

Core Puppy Vaccines

These are recommended for all dogs: 

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza) 

• Given every 3–4 weeks starting at 6–8 weeks 

• Final booster at16 weeks 

Rabies 

Given from 12 weeks (required by law in Ontario) 

Lifestyle-Based (Non-Core) Vaccines

Depending on your puppy’s lifestyle, your veterinarian may also recommend: 

• Bordetella (Kennel Cough) 

• Leptospirosis 

• Lyme disease 

Kitten Vaccines: What and When

Kittens typically begin vaccinations around 6–8 weeks of age, with boosters every few weeks until about 20 weeks. 

Core Kitten Vaccines

Recommended for all cats: 

• FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) 

• Given every 3–4 weeks starting at 6–8 weeks 

• Final booster around 20 weeks 

Rabies

Given from 12 weeks (required by law in Ontario) 

Additional Vaccines

• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus): Often recommended for kittens, especially those who may go outdoors or live with other cats 

After the First Year

Once your puppy or kitten completes their initial vaccine series, booster shots are typically given one year later, then every 1–3 years depending on the vaccine and your pet’s lifestyle. 

Adopted from Toronto Humane Society? You’re Already on Track

If you adopted your puppy or kitten from Toronto Humane Society, you can feel reassured knowing your pet is already up to date on their age-appropriate vaccines at the time of adoption. Our veterinary team carefully ensures every animal receives essential preventive care before going home.  

Accessible Vaccine Care at Toronto Humane Society

Toronto Humane Society’s Public Veterinary Services offers vaccines for puppies and kittens, helping pet parents access essential preventive care. Our team can help ensure your pet stays on track with their vaccination schedule during these important early months. 

Appointments can be booked online, making it easy to plan care that fits your schedule.