Vaccines Explained: Core vs. Non-Core for Dogs and Cats
Prepared by the Waggle editorial team. This article is educational, not a diagnosis or an individual veterinary review.
Photo by Sharon Snider on Pexels. Illustrative photo; not a patient or clinical diagnosis.
Vaccines protect pets against serious, sometimes deadly diseases. Vets divide them into core vaccines, recommended for nearly every pet, and non-core vaccines, recommended based on lifestyle and risk.
Core vaccines for dogs
AAHA's canine guidelines classify distemper, parvovirus, adenovirus, rabies and leptospirosis as core. Leptospirosis was added to the core category in the 2024 update. Rabies timing must also follow applicable law.
Non-core vaccines for dogs
Bordetella, Lyme disease and canine influenza vaccination depend on individual exposure, location and facility requirements. Your veterinarian should choose the products and intervals. Leptospirosis is not in this non-core list under current AAHA guidance.
Core vaccines for cats
FVRCP and rabies are core vaccines for pet cats under AAHA/AAFP guidance. FeLV is also core for cats under one year; for older cats, assess exposure risk with the vet and test before vaccination.
Non-core vaccines for cats
Some vaccines are reserved for unusual exposure risks and are not routine for every cat. Do not assume a vaccine mentioned online is available or recommended in your country. Indoor cats still need core protection.
How to decide
Ask your vet about your pet's age, health, local disease risks and activities such as boarding, grooming, hiking or travel. Vaccine plans should be personalized.
Keep records current
Boarding, daycare, groomers and travel often require proof of vaccination. Store certificates in your digital pet health vault and set reminders for boosters.
To book a vaccine appointment, find a nearby veterinarian.
FAQs
Do indoor pets need vaccines?
Yes. Core vaccines are recommended for indoor pets, since exposure can still happen.
Can vaccines have side effects?
Mild tiredness or soreness is common. If your pet seems unwell after a shot, chat with a licensed vet on Waggle Vet.
Related reading
- The Annual Wellness Exam: What Your Vet Checks and Why
- Dental Care for Pets: Preventing Disease Before It Starts
- What Belongs in Your Pet's Complete Health File
Waggle resources
Store pet documents with Waggle Vault
Find nearby US veterinary clinics
Sources and further guidance
- Merck Veterinary Manual: veterinary-reviewed pet owner resources
- AAHA: updated core leptospirosis vaccination guidance
- AAHA/AAFP: core vaccines for pet cats
Sources checked October 13, 2026. These references inform the guidance; they do not mean the authors medically reviewed or endorsed this article.
Still have questions?
For non-emergency questions, explore Waggle Vet. Trouble breathing, collapse, suspected poisoning or other severe signs need immediate in-person emergency care—do not wait for an online chat.
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