How Much Do Cat Shots Cost At Petsmart? 2023 Updated Price

If you’re a cat owner, one of your responsibilities is to ensure your feline friend receives the necessary vaccinations to keep them healthy. But how much do these shots actually cost? In this article, we’ll explore the cost of cat shots, what they protect against, and other important information that every cat owner should know.

Where Offers Cat Shots?

There are many different places that offer cat shots. Some of the most common options include:

Veterinary hospitals: Most veterinary hospitals offer cat shots as part of their regular services. They can provide a variety of vaccines, including those for rabies, feline leukemia virus (FeLV), and feline distemper.
Mobile vaccination clinics: Mobile vaccination clinics are a convenient option for pet owners who do not have easy access to a veterinary hospital. They often offer lower prices than veterinary hospitals, and they can come to your home or workplace to give your cat its shots.
Pet stores: Some pet stores offer cat shots, but they may not have as many vaccine options as a veterinary hospital. They may also be more expensive than mobile vaccination clinics.
Animal shelters: Animal shelters often offer low-cost or free cat shots as part of their adoption programs. This is a great option for pet owners who are on a budget or who are adopting a cat from a shelter.

Read More: Why Are Vaccinations Important for Cats?

Which Vaccinations Are Required For Cats?

Cats need several different vaccinations to protect them from various diseases. Some of the most important vaccines for cats include:

FVRCP Vaccine

This vaccine protects cats against three different diseases: feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), calicivirus, and panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper). FVR is a respiratory infection that can cause sneezing, coughing, and eye discharge. Calicivirus is also a respiratory infection that can cause ulcers in the mouth and nose. Panleukopenia is a severe and often fatal disease that can affect the digestive system, respiratory system, and nervous system. The FVRCP vaccine is usually given in a series of three doses when a kitten is 6-8 weeks old, 10-12 weeks old, and 14-16 weeks old. After that, cats typically only need to receive the vaccine once every three years.

Rabies Vaccine

This vaccine protects cats against the deadly rabies virus. Rabies is a virus that can be transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. It is fatal if not treated. The rabies vaccine is required by law in most states and is usually given when a kitten is 12-16 weeks old. After that, cats typically need to receive the vaccine once every one to three years, depending on local laws.

FeLV Vaccine

This vaccine protects cats against the feline leukemia virus (FeLV). FeLV is a highly contagious virus that can be transmitted through saliva, urine, and other bodily fluids. It can cause a variety of health problems, including anemia, cancer, and immune deficiency. The FeLV vaccine is usually given in a series of two doses when a kitten is 9-12 weeks old, and then again at 12-16 weeks old. After that, cats typically only need to receive the vaccine once every two to three years.

In addition to these core vaccines, there are a few other vaccines that may be recommended for cats depending on their lifestyle and risk factors. These vaccines include:

Bordetella vaccine: This vaccine protects cats against bordetella, a bacteria that can cause respiratory infections. It is often recommended for cats that go to cat shows or boarding facilities.
Chlamydophila felis vaccine: This vaccine protects cats against chlamydophila felis, a bacteria that can cause respiratory infections. It is often recommended for cats that are exposed to other cats.
FIP vaccine: This vaccine protects cats against feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), a serious and often fatal disease. FIP is caused by a coronavirus, but the vaccine only protects against a specific strain of the virus.

Do Cats Really Need Vaccinations?

Many indoor cat owners believe that their cats don’t need vaccinations, but this is a common misconception. Although indoor cats are less likely to contract infectious diseases than outdoor cats, they are not immune, and core vaccines can protect them against highly contagious diseases. Indoor cats can still be infected through contact with contaminated objects or animals. Diseases like FHV, FCV, and FIV can live on surfaces for long periods of time and can be carried inside on clothing. Rabies is also a dangerous disease that cats should be vaccinated against since it can be transmitted through physical contact with an infected animal, and it’s fatal for both animals and humans.

What Is The Cost Of Cat Vaccinations?

The cost of cat shots can vary depending on where you live and where you get your pet vaccinated. Generally speaking, cat owners can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 for a complete series of vaccinations for their cat. However, this price can be higher or lower depending on factors like:

Where you get your cat vaccinated. The cost of vaccinations will be higher at a veterinarian’s office than at a mobile vaccination clinic or a pet store.
Whether your cat is an indoor or outdoor cat. Outdoor cats are more likely to come into contact with diseases, so they may need more vaccinations than indoor cats.
The type of vaccinations your cat needs. The core vaccines for cats are FVRCP (feline panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and parvovirus), rabies, and FeLV (feline leukemia virus). Some cats may also need other vaccines, such as FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) & preemptive FIV testing or Bordetella (kennel cough).
The frequency of vaccinations. Kittens need to be vaccinated more often than adult cats.

Here is a general breakdown of the cost of cat shots:

FVRCP: $20-40 per shot
Rabies: $10-30 per shot
FeLV: $25-45 per shot
FIV: $20-40 per shot
Bordetella: $10-30 per shot

The total cost of vaccinations for a kitten will typically be around $100-200, and the cost for an adult cat will be around $50-100.

Here are some estimated costs for cat shots at different locations:

ShotVet

ShotVet is a mobile veterinary clinic that offers affordable vaccination packages for cats. Their most basic package, which includes the FVRCP and rabies vaccines, as well as a dewormer, starts at just $69.

The FVRCP vaccine protects cats against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rhinotracheitis. These are all common and serious diseases that can affect cats. The rabies vaccine protects cats against rabies, a deadly virus that can be transmitted to humans.

The dewormer included in the ShotVet vaccination package helps to protect cats against intestinal parasites, such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. These parasites can cause a variety of health problems in cats, including diarrhea, weight loss, and vomiting.

The Price of Shotvet Package update 2023 you can reference:

PUREVAX INDOOR

PACKAGE: $119

PUREVAX 1 Year Rabies
FVRCP
Strategic Deworm(Hook + Round)

PUREVAX OUTDOOR

PACKAGE: $149

PUREVAX 1 Year Rabies
FVRCP
Strategic Deworm(Hook + Round)
PUREVAX FELV Vaccine Only

KITTEN

PureVax Kitten Club: $189

PUREVAX 1 Year Rabies
FVRCP Series
Purevax FELV Vaccine Series
Strategic Deworm(Hook + Round)

ShotVet has three locations in Maryland and Virginia. They also offer a Fast Paws program that allows you to pre-pay for your services and schedule an appointment online. This can help you save time and money.

Here are some of the benefits of getting your cat vaccinated at ShotVet:

Affordable prices
Convenient locations
Fast Paws program
Experienced and knowledgeable staff
Clean and modern facilities

If you are looking for an affordable and convenient way to vaccinate your cat, ShotVet is a great option. You can learn more about their services on their website: https://www.shotvet.com/

Banfield Pet Hospital

Banfield Pet Hospital offers wellness plans that include vaccinations for cats. Their plans start at $63.95 per month and include unlimited office visits, this will be at $49.95 when office visit (add additional pet), as well as discounts on other services like dental cleanings and diagnostic tests.

They include all necessary vaccinations, as well as other preventive care services like physical exams, fecal tests, and deworming.
Plans also include unlimited office visits, so you can take your cat to the vet for any reason, no matter how small.
There are discounts on other services like dental cleanings and diagnostic tests.

The Price of Banfield Pet Hospital update 2023 you can reference:

All vaccinations must be done at an office visit, which includes a veterinary consultation and physical examination of your pet. Some vaccinations may require an additional office visit for boosters.

Feline Distemper FVRCP: $30.83

Feline Leukemia Virus: $33.20

Rabies: $26.08

Here are some of the benefits of enrolling your cat in a wellness plan:

Peace of mind knowing that your cat is getting the preventive care they need.
Convenience of having unlimited office visits.
Savings on other services like dental cleanings and diagnostic tests.

If you are looking for a way to keep your cat healthy and happy, a wellness plan from Banfield Pet Hospital is a great option.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about Banfield Pet Hospital’s wellness plans:

The plans are not insurance. Insurance is designed to reimburse you for unexpected veterinary costs, while a wellness plan is designed to help you budget for the regular, preventive care that your cat needs.
The plans are not refundable. Once you enroll, you are committed to paying the monthly premium for the entire year.
You can cancel the plan at any time, but you may be responsible for a cancellation fee.

Overall, Banfield Pet Hospital’s wellness plans are a good option for cat owners who want to provide their cats with the preventive care they need at a reasonable cost. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before enrolling to make sure that it is the right choice for you and your cat.

PetSmart

PetSmart is a pet supply retailer that also offers veterinary services, including vaccinations for cats. The prices for vaccinations vary depending on the location, but generally, cat owners can expect to pay around $90 for a complete series of vaccinations.

The core vaccines that are recommended for all cats include:

Feline panleukopenia (FVRCP): This vaccine protects cats from feline distemper, a highly contagious and often fatal disease.
Rabies: This vaccine is required by law in most areas and protects cats from rabies, a deadly virus that can be transmitted to humans.

In addition to the core vaccines, some cat owners may also choose to vaccinate their cats against other diseases, such as:

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV): This virus can cause cancer and other health problems in cats.
Bordetella: This vaccine protects cats from kennel cough, a respiratory infection that is often spread in boarding facilities and shelters.

The best way to determine which vaccines are right for your cat is to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you assess your cat’s individual risk factors and recommend the appropriate vaccination schedule.

The Price of Petsmart update 2023 you can reference:

Indoor: $99 for rabies, FVRCP, and deworming
Outdoor: $139 for rabies, FVRCP, deworming, and FeLV

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when getting your cat vaccinated at PetSmart:

You will need to bring your cat’s vaccination records with you to the appointment.
Your cat will need to be in good health to receive vaccinations.
Some cats may experience mild side effects after vaccination, such as a sore injection site or a low-grade fever.

Overall, PetSmart is a convenient and affordable option for getting your cat vaccinated. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the best vaccination schedule for your cat.

Comparing Vaccination Options

To help you decide where to get your cat vaccinated, here’s a comparison of the different options available:

Factor	ShotVet	Banfield Pet Hospital	PetSmart
Cost	$119 ~ $189	~ $90	$99 ~ $139
Services Offered	Vaccinations, deworming, microchipping	Vaccinations, surgeries, dental care, etc.	Vaccinations
Additional Services	Wellness plans	Wellness plans	None
Convenience	Mobile clinic	In-hospital clinic	In-store clinic
Availability	Varies	Nationwide	Nationwide

Which Option is Right for You?

The best option for you will depend on your individual needs and circumstances. If you have a healthy cat and you are looking for the most convenient option, a mobile vaccination clinic may be a good choice. If you have a cat with special needs or if you want to get your cat vaccinated against a wider range of diseases, a veterinary hospital may be a better option. And if you are on a budget, an animal shelter may be the best option for you.

No matter which option you choose, it is important to make sure that your cat gets the vaccinations it needs to stay healthy. Vaccinations can help protect your cat from serious diseases, such as rabies and FeLV.

Here are some additional things to consider when choosing a place to get your cat’s shots:

The cost: Vaccination prices can vary depending on the type of vaccine, the location, and the type of clinic. Be sure to compare prices before you make a decision.
The availability of the vaccines you need: Not all clinics offer all types of vaccines. Make sure the clinic you choose offers the vaccines that are right for your cat.
The experience of the staff: The staff at the clinic should be knowledgeable about cat vaccinations and should be able to answer any questions you have.
The convenience: Consider how convenient it will be for you to get to the clinic and how long you expect to wait.

Pros and Cons of Cat Vaccinations

Like any medical procedure, cat vaccinations come with their own set of pros and cons. Here are some things to consider:

Pros

Fortification Against Ailments: The most compelling advantage lies in the safeguarding of your feline companion against grave, and often life-threatening, illnesses. Vaccines serve as a shield, equipping your cat’s immune system to ward off these diseases effectively.
Community Health and Well-being: Beyond the individual protection, vaccinating your cat holds broader implications for the welfare of the animal community around you. By ensuring your pet’s immunity, you play an active role in curtailing the dissemination of diseases to fellow animals.
Trans-species Safety Net: A subset of vaccinations extends their protective arm to encompass diseases that can transcend species barriers, extending even to humans. This not only secures your cat but also bolsters the health defense line within your household.

Cons:

Potential Side Effects: The realm of medicine can, at times, be accompanied by adverse reactions, and vaccinations are no exception. Some cats might experience post-vaccination side effects, including elevated body temperature, listlessness, and even bouts of vomiting.
Financial Implications: Financial considerations often come into play with medical procedures, and vaccinations are no different. The cost factor can loom large, particularly if you’re opting for a comprehensive wellness plan inclusive of vaccinations.
Balancing Act: An aspect that demands thoughtful management is the risk of over-vaccination. Striking the right balance between protecting your cat and avoiding potential health complications becomes a pivotal responsibility. Adhering to a vaccination schedule aligned with your cat’s age and lifestyle is of paramount importance.

Tips for Keeping Your Cat Healthy

Dietary Considerations for Your Cat

Cats stand out as obligate carnivores, implying a fundamental reliance on meat for their sustenance. Their nutritional regimen should predominantly be rich in protein while minimizing carbohydrate content as Cheerios, Pretzels, Graham Crackers,... The market offers a diverse range of cat foods, spanning wet, dry, or sometimes an amalgamation of both. When making a choice, it’s pivotal to opt for cat-specific formulations that cater to their intricate nutritional prerequisites.

The Importance of Physical Activity

Just like humans, cats derive immense benefits from regular exercise, crucial for their health and vitality. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes of playful interaction daily. Engage them using toys, enticing wands, or the ever-mesmerizing laser pointers. Investing in cat trees or scratching posts is another excellent way to encourage your feline to climb and flex those muscles.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Cats

There’s a strong case for keeping cats indoors — it significantly diminishes their exposure to potential dangers, be it vehicular accidents, confrontations with other animals, or falling prey to communicable diseases. If you’re inclined to allow them a taste of the outdoors, a tethered experience through a leash or ensuring they remain within a fenced yard can be safer alternatives.

Veterinary Visits

Proactive healthcare is the best approach. Regularly scheduled visits to the veterinarian aid in early detection of potential health issues. These professionals not only assess the health but also administer essential vaccinations and other preventive treatments.

Additional Care Tips:

Grooming: Frequent grooming doesn’t just enhance your cat’s appearance. It efficiently gets rid of stray hairs, averts the formation of mats and tangles, and generally promotes the health of their skin and coat.
Litter Box Maintenance: Hygiene plays a significant role in behavioral outcomes. A neglected litter box might deter your cat from using it, possibly leading to behavioral complications.
Hydration: Ensure a constant supply of fresh water for your cat or additional hydration food for cats water intake. This is particularly vital for those primarily consuming dry food, to maintain adequate hydration levels.
Signs of Illness: Stay vigilant about potential indicators of ill-health in your cat, such as weight fluctuations, appetite variations, altered restroom routines, vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual lethargy. At the first hint of such symptoms, it’s advisable to consult your veterinarian promptly.

The Bottom Line

Getting your cat vaccinated is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. While the cost of vaccinations can vary, it’s a small price to pay to protect your cat from serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. Talk to your veterinarian about the best vaccination schedule for your cat, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have.

FAQs How Much Do Cat Shots Cost At Petsmart?

How much is a 4 in 1 vaccine for cats?

The cost of a 4-in-1 vaccine for cats, which is often referred to as an FVRCP vaccine, can vary depending on factors such as your geographical location, the veterinary clinic or hospital you visit, and the overall pricing policies in your region. On average, the cost can range from $20 to $40 per shot. This vaccine provides protection against four common feline diseases: feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR), calicivirus, panleukopenia (also known as feline distemper), and chlamydia.

Is it too late to vaccinate my cat?

It’s not necessarily too late to vaccinate your cat, but the timing of vaccinations does matter. Kittens typically receive a series of vaccinations starting at around 6 to 8 weeks of age and continuing every 3-4 weeks until they are about 16-20 weeks old. If your cat is an adult and hasn’t been vaccinated, it’s important to discuss with your veterinarian. They will help determine the appropriate vaccination schedule based on your cat’s health, age, and potential exposure to diseases.

Do cats need 3 vaccines?

Cats do require multiple rounds of vaccinations, particularly during their kittenhood. Kittens usually receive a series of vaccinations to establish immunity against various diseases. Common vaccinations include the FVRCP (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia) vaccine, rabies vaccine, and sometimes additional vaccinations depending on the cat’s lifestyle and exposure risk.

Do cats need 1 year shots?

Yes, many vaccines for cats are initially given as a series of shots during the first year of their life to build up their immune system’s defenses. After the initial series, some vaccines are then given on a one-year schedule, while others may transition to a three-year schedule, depending on the type of vaccine and the recommendations of your veterinarian.

How many shots do cats need?

The number of shots a cat needs depends on their age, health, lifestyle, and the specific vaccines recommended by your veterinarian. Kittens usually require a series of shots during their first few months of life to establish immunity. Adult cats generally receive booster shots at various intervals to maintain their immunity. Common vaccines include those for FVRCP, rabies, and potentially others based on individual circumstances.

Can I vaccinate my cat myself?

While some vaccines are available for purchase online or in pet stores, it’s highly recommended that you have a licensed veterinarian administer vaccines to your cat. Veterinarians are trained to ensure the correct vaccine is used, proper dosage is given, and they can also address any potential reactions or side effects.

What is a 3 in 1 shot for cats?

A 3-in-1 shot for cats usually refers to the FVRCP vaccine, which stands for Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. These are three common and potentially serious respiratory and viral diseases that affect cats. This combination vaccine provides protection against all three of these diseases in a single shot. It’s an essential part of a cat’s vaccination regimen, especially for kittens and cats with outdoor exposure.