Cat Vaccination Guide (F3 & F4): Schedule and How to Book

The short version: a cat's core vaccine protects against three key diseases via the F3 vaccine (often called Tricat or FVRCP): rhinotracheitis (FHV-1), calicivirus, and panleukopenia. The F4 vaccine adds protection against Chlamydia, suited to multi-cat homes. Rabies is mandatory in Indonesia. Kittens start their vaccine series around 6 to 8 weeks, repeated a few weeks apart, then an annual booster for life. All of this can be done calmly at home. Message the Prabasa vet team on WhatsApp to check the schedule.

Vaccination is one of the cheapest health investments for your cat, far cheaper than treating a disease that could have been prevented. This guide explains the vaccine types, the schedule, and how to book a home vaccination so your cat does not have to stress in transit.

Getting to know F3 and F4

The terms F3 and F4 refer to the number of diseases one combination vaccine covers:

• F3 (Tricat / FVRCP), protects against three core diseases: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis (the herpes virus FHV-1), Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia. This is the minimum standard for house cats. Panleukopenia in particular is highly contagious and can be fatal in kittens.
• F4 (Tetracat), the F3 coverage plus Chlamydia felis. Suited to homes with several cats or cats that often contact other cats.
• Rabies, a separate vaccine, mandatory in Indonesia because rabies is zoonotic (transmissible to humans) and fatal once symptoms appear. It can be given at the same visit, at a different injection site.
• FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus), a non-core vaccine, advised for cats with outdoor access or in multi-cat environments.

For cat vaccines, Prabasa vets use trusted products such as Felocell and Purevax (Zoetis via Romindo), with the cold chain maintained in transit. Which type fits your cat depends on its lifestyle, discussed during the exam.

The cat vaccination schedule

Kitten phase (around 6 to 16 weeks)

Antibodies from the mother's milk protect kittens in the early weeks but can also neutralise a vaccine given too early. That is why kitten vaccines are given as a series a few weeks apart:

• Around 6 to 8 weeks: first F3 dose.
• Around 10 to 12 weeks: F3 booster (can be F4 as needed).
• Around 14 to 16 weeks: final F3 booster and first rabies vaccine.

For high-risk environments, the vet may extend the series per WSAVA guidelines. The exact intervals are set by the vet based on the kitten's condition.

First adult booster (around age 1)

A year after the kitten series ends, the cat receives an F3 or F4 booster and rabies. This booster is crucial, many cats lose long-term protection because owners skip it.

Annual booster

After that, boosters are given yearly, ideally in the same month for easy recall. For senior cats, the vet usually also checks general condition during the visit.

Key requirements before vaccinating

• The cat must be healthy. Vaccines are only for a fit cat, so there is always a brief physical exam first.
• Ideally dewormed. Deworming is often aligned with the vaccine schedule.
• Share the history. Tell the vet about previous vaccines and any reactions that occurred.

Reactions after the vaccine

Mild reactions such as slight lethargy, a day of reduced appetite, or small swelling at the injection site are common and usually settle within one to two days. Rare but urgent are facial swelling, intense itching, repeated vomiting, or trouble breathing within minutes to hours. The vet will explain which signs to watch for and when to head to a clinic.

Why home vaccination is comfortable for cats

Many cats are severely stressed the moment they enter a carrier and a car. With home vaccination, the cat stays on its own turf, calmer, and the whole cat family can be vaccinated in one session. A Prabasa vet arrives with vaccines in a cooler, examines first, then injects with correct technique.

How to book a home cat vaccination

1. Message Prabasa Vet on WhatsApp with the number of cats, age, vaccine history (if any), and your area.
2. The vet helps assess the relevant vaccine types (F3, F4, rabies) and gives a transparent estimate.
3. You pick a suitable time, and the vet comes to your home.
4. After the vaccine, you get aftercare guidance and a reminder for the next booster.

Is your cat due for a vaccine? Do not delay its protection. Message Prabasa Vet on WhatsApp now to check home vaccination scheduling across Jabodetabek. The initial consult is free. If the exam finds your cat is not fit to vaccinate that day, the vet will explain the safest next steps before proceeding.