Do Indoor Pets Need Vaccination?

A common assumption is that an animal that never goes out is not exposed. Several of the important diseases do not require the animal to leave the house.

Diseases that come to you

Parvovirus and panleukopenia survive on shoes, clothing and hands for months. Leptospirosis arrives with rodent urine. Rabies exposure can happen through a single bat or an escaped afternoon.

Core versus non-core

Core vaccines are recommended for every animal. Non-core ones — kennel cough, leptospirosis in some areas — depend on lifestyle, and that is a genuine discussion to have.

Titre testing

For adult animals, antibody titre testing is available and can justify extending intervals for some vaccines. Rabies boosters remain a legal requirement regardless.

Keep the record

Boarding, grooming, travel and municipal licensing all require proof.