Pet Vaccinations: Rabies & Distemper

Keeping our pets healthy is one of the most important responsibilities we have as pet owners. Among the many ways we support their well-being, pet vaccinations play a critical role in preventing serious and potentially fatal diseases. Two of the most essential core vaccines for dogs and cats are those protecting against rabies and distemper. Understanding what these diseases are, how they spread, and why vaccines matter can help you make confident decisions about your pet’s health.

What is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals—including humans. It is transmitted primarily through the bite of an infected animal. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal.

Key Symptoms:

• Behavioral changes (aggression, anxiety, or unusual friendliness)
• Excessive drooling
• Difficulty swallowing
• Paralysis

What is Distemper?

Distemper is another highly contagious viral disease, most commonly affecting dogs, though cats have their own version known as feline panleukopenia (often referred to as feline distemper).

How Distemper Spreads:

• Direct contact with infected animals
• Exposure to bodily fluids or contaminated surfaces
• Airborne transmission through coughing or sneezing

Common Symptoms:

• Fever
• Nasal and eye discharge
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Neurological signs such as seizures or loss of coordination

Distemper is dangerous because it attacks multiple body systems, including the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. Without vaccination, pets who contract distemper often face life-threatening complications.

Why These Are Considered Core Vaccines

Veterinarians classify rabies and distemper vaccines as core because they protect against diseases that are:

• Severe or fatal
• Highly contagious
• Widespread or endemic
• Zoonotic (rabies), posing risks to humans

Core pet vaccinations are recommended for every puppy and kitten, as well as adult pets, following proper booster schedules.

When Should Pets Get Vaccinated?

Puppies & Kittens

• Begin vaccinations at 6–8 weeks of age
• Receive a series of boosters every 3–4 weeks
• Rabies is typically administered around 12–16 weeks

Adult Pets

• Require regular boosters based on local laws and veterinary guidance—often every 1 to 3 years



Sticking to a vaccination schedule ensures your pet maintains strong immunity throughout their life.

The Takeaway on Essential Pet Vaccinations

Rabies and distemper are serious diseases, but the good news is that both are highly preventable through routine pet vaccinations. By keeping your pets up-to-date on these core vaccines, you’re not only protecting them but also helping maintain a healthier and safer community.

If you're unsure whether your pet is due for their shots, reach out to Vetcare for Pets Animal Hospital in Dunn, NC. Our team can review records and recommend the best plan for lifelong protection.