What are core vaccines for pets?

Core vaccines are inoculations that veterinarians recommend for every dog and cat, regardless of lifestyle or risk factors. They protect against diseases that are widespread, severe, or potentially fatal. The core set forms the foundation of a pet's immune protection and is considered standard preventive care.

For dogs, core vaccines typically include rabies, DHPP (a combination covering distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, and parainfluenza), and leptospirosis. For cats, core vaccines usually include rabies and FVRCP (a combination covering feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia). These diseases cause serious illness or death and spread readily among animal populations.

Non-core vaccines, by contrast, are recommended based on a pet's specific risk factors, geography, lifestyle, and exposure potential. Examples include feline leukemia, Bordetella (kennel cough), or Lyme disease vaccine for dogs. A veterinarian assesses your pet's individual circumstances to determine whether non-core vaccines are appropriate.

Core vaccination schedules begin in puppyhood or kittenhood, with boosters given at regular intervals. General practice veterinarians use the pet's medical history and risk profile to determine the right vaccination plan. Keeping core vaccines current is essential for your pet's health and may be required by law, such as rabies vaccination mandates in most jurisdictions.