Understanding Core vs. Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs and Cats
Vaccinations are an essential part of keeping your pet healthy and protected from preventable diseases. But with so many vaccines available, it can be confusing to know which ones your pet really needs. At Petvise Animal Hospital, we help guide pet parents through this important decision based on lifestyle, risk, and overall health.
Let’s break it down: pet vaccines fall into two categories—core and non-core.
Core Vaccines for Dogs
These vaccines are considered essential for all dogs, regardless of age, breed, or lifestyle.
- Rabies
- Legally required in Texas and many other states.
- Protects against a deadly virus that can spread to humans.
- Distemper
- A serious virus affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems.
- Parvovirus (Parvo)
- Highly contagious and often fatal, especially in puppies.
- Adenovirus (Hepatitis)
- Affects the liver and other organs; often combined in the DHPP vaccine. These are often given together as the DHPP or DAPP combination vaccine.
Non-Core Vaccines for Dogs
These are recommended based on your dog’s lifestyle, environment, or risk exposure.
- Leptospirosis
- Spread by water or wildlife urine; can infect humans too.
- Bordetella (Kennel Cough)
- Often required for boarding, daycare, or grooming facilities.
- Canine Influenza (Dog Flu)
- Recommended for dogs in social or urban settings.
- Lyme Disease
- Spread by ticks; recommended if your dog spends time in grassy or wooded areas.
Core Vaccines for Cats
All cats should be protected with these core vaccines:
- Rabies
- Required by law and protects both your cat and your family.
- Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper)
- Highly contagious and often fatal.
- Herpesvirus (FHV-1) & Calicivirus
- Cause upper respiratory infections; often combined as the FVRCP vaccine. The FVRCP vaccine covers the three major core feline viruses.
Non-Core Vaccines for Cats
Recommended for cats with certain risk factors.
- Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV)
- Especially important for kittens, outdoor cats, or cats in multi-cat households.
- Bordetella
- May be recommended for cats in crowded environments like shelters.
How Do I Know Which Vaccines My Pet Needs?
At Petvise Animal Hospital, we tailor vaccine plans based on:
- Your pet’s age and health status
- Indoor vs. outdoor lifestyle
- Travel and boarding habits
- Exposure to other pets or wildlife
Our goal is to keep your pet protected without over-vaccinating—a balance that ensures both safety and peace of mind.
Schedule a Wellness Visit
The best time to discuss vaccinations is during your pet’s annual wellness exam. Right now, new clients get 50% off their first wellness exam—a great opportunity to get your pet caught up on what they truly need.
Call us today at (469) 991-5171 or visit us at 5200 Stacy Road, Suite 400, McKinney, TX to book your appointment.