What Is the FVRCP Vaccine, and Why Does Your Cat Need It?

The FVRCP vaccine is recommended for all cats, regardless of their lifestyle. 

This combination feline shot protects cats of all ages against three common viruses, helping to ensure a lifetime of health and happiness. 

Here’s what pet parents should know about the FVRCP cat vaccine. 

What Is the FVRCP Vaccine for Cats?

The FVRCP vaccine for cats is considered a core vaccine, which means veterinarians recommend it for all cats, regardless of lifestyle.  

The vaccine protects against three common but serious viruses that can put your cat’s health, and the health of other cats in the community, at risk.   

FVRCP is an acronym that stands for the following diseases the shot protects against:  

• Feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR). Almost all cats are exposed to feline herpesvirus (FHV-1), which causes the respiratory infection called FVR. However, some cats have lifelong infection, with the virus reactivating periodically throughout their lives to cause respiratory or eye problems. During flare-ups, cats also shed the virus into the environment, which can infect other cats. 

• Calicivirus (C). Commonly causing a respiratory infection with painful mouth ulcers, calicivirus is usually seen in kittens. Some strains can cause a more serious systemic (whole body) illness and joint pain.  

• Panleukopenia (P). Sometimes called feline distemper, panleukopenia is a highly contagious and often fatal virus that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, fever, lethargy, and dehydration. Although it shares a name with a canine disease, panleukopenia is more like parvovirus in dogs. 

Veterinarians recommend the FVRCP vaccine because these viruses are common and can stay in the environment for long periods, so most cats will be exposed to them. Because many communities have free-roaming cats, viruses can spread easily.  

Cats kept indoors are also at risk because pet parents can bring the virus into their homes on their clothing or shoes, or by adopting another cat.  

The FVRCP feline vaccine helps your cat’s immune system recognize and fight off these viral threats before they can cause serious illness.  

Overall, the vaccine is considered highly effective. While the FVRCP vaccine may not completely prevent FHV-1 infection, it can reduce the severity of the first infection and limit the impact of future flare-ups.  

When Should Your Cat Get the FVRCP Vaccine?

Kittens should receive a series of FVRCP vaccines beginning at 6–8 weeks of age.  

After the first kitten vaccine, your cat should return to the vet for boosters every three or four weeks, with the last booster after they are 16 weeks old.  

Kittens need multiple shots because they get antibodies from their mother’s milk that can interfere with their ability to respond to vaccines. They should get a vaccine series to make sure they get complete protection as antibodies wear off.  

After the first series, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) recommends that cats receive a booster shot between 6 and 12 months of age, then every three years. 

Here’s an example schedule for the FVRCP vaccine, starting in kittenhood: 

• Initial shot: 6 weeks 

• Booster: 9 weeks 

• Booster: 12 weeks 

• Booster: 16 weeks 

• Booster: 1 year 

• Adult boosters: 4 years, 7 years, 10 years, etc. 

Check this full kitten vaccination schedule for other recommended shots. 

Benefits of the FVRCP Vaccine for Cats

The FVRCP vaccine is a simple measure pet parents can take to provide kittens and cats with long-lasting benefits, including:  

• Protection against three serious viral diseases 

• Reduced spread of the virus to other cats 

• Reduced likelihood of chronic respiratory disease 

• Support for a healthier, longer life 

The FVRCP vaccine for cats can set your feline friend up for a lifetime of better health. 

What Are the Side Effects of the FVRCP Vaccine for Cats?

Like any vaccine, the FVRCP cat shot can have mild side effects.  

Serious reactions are rare, especially with the highly purified, safe vaccines typically used. 

While most cats don’t develop problems, you may notice signs that the immune system is working to build protection. These signs are normal and nothing to worry about, and they typically last for only a day or two. They may include: 

• Lower energy or sleepiness 

• Soreness or mild swelling at the injection site 

• Low-grade fever 

If your cat is experiencing these mild symptoms, encourage them to use a cozy cat bed or blanket while they rest.

Allergic vaccine reactions are uncommon in cats, but you should call your veterinarian right away if you notice these signs after the FVRCP shot: 

• Vomiting or diarrhea 

• Facial swelling or hives 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Weakness or collapse 

A lump at the vaccine site is normal, but it should go away within three months of injection. If it doesn’t, have your veterinarian check the lump.  

Injection site sarcomas are a rare complication of vaccination in cats, and modern vaccines are highly purified and adjuvant-free, greatly reducing the incidence of these tumors.  

To be safe, veterinarians use the 3-2-1 rule: If the lump lasts longer than three months, grows larger than 2 centimeters, or continues to grow one month after the shot, your veterinarian may recommend a biopsy.