What Vaccines Do Cats Need To Be Boarded?

Planning to board your cat while you’re away can feel like leaving a family member behind. You want them safe, happy, and well looked after. One of the most important steps before checking your cat into a boarding facility is making sure their vaccinations are up to date.

At Paws Hotel, we take pet health very seriously. Whether your cat is staying at our luxury cattery in Springvale or our luxury cat boarding facility in Altona, we require all guests to have the necessary vaccines before check-in. This protects your cat and every other guest in our care.

Why Vaccinations Matter Before Cat Boarding?

Vaccinations play a vital role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Even in clean, well-maintained environments like Paws Hotel in Melbourne, illnesses can spread through shared spaces, air, or contact with contaminated surfaces.

By keeping your cat’s vaccinations current, you’re not only protecting your pet but also helping us maintain a safe, healthy space for all cats. Most boarding catteries across Melbourne follow the same vaccination rules to ensure every guest enjoys a worry-free stay.

The Required Vaccine for Cat Boarding

Most catteries, including Paws Hotel, require the F3 vaccination as the minimum standard for boarding. This vaccine protects cats against three serious and contagious diseases:

Feline Enteritis (Feline Panleukopenia)

A highly infectious and often fatal virus that affects the intestines and immune system. It causes symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. Vaccination is the best way to prevent infection.

Feline Calicivirus

A common cause of respiratory infections in cats. It can spread quickly and lead to ulcers in the mouth, nasal discharge, and loss of appetite. The F3 vaccine helps prevent severe symptoms.

Feline Herpesvirus (Feline Rhinotracheitis)

This virus affects the upper respiratory system and can cause sneezing, watery eyes, and lethargy. Once infected, cats can carry the virus for life and may experience flare-ups during stressful situations, such as boarding.

These three illnesses are covered by the F3 vaccine, which is mandatory for all cats staying with us.

Additional Vaccines to Consider

While the F3 vaccine is the minimum requirement, some cats may benefit from extra protection depending on their lifestyle. Your vet can advise you on whether these are needed.

FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus)

This virus weakens a cat’s immune system, leaving them vulnerable to infections. Cats that spend time outdoors or around other felines are more at risk.

FeLV (Feline Leukaemia Virus)

FeLV can suppress the immune system and lead to serious illnesses such as anemia or cancer. It’s transmitted through saliva or close contact with infected cats.

Although Paws Hotel only requires proof of the F3 vaccine, we recommend asking your vet whether FIV or FeLV vaccines are suitable for your cat, especially if they socialise regularly with other cats.

When Should Cats Be Vaccinated Before Boarding?

If you plan to board your cat at our Springvale or Altona locations, make sure their vaccinations are done at least two weeks before their stay. This gives their immune system enough time to build full protection.

For kittens, the typical vaccination schedule is:

• First vaccination: 6 to 8 weeks old

• Second vaccination: 10 to 12 weeks old

• Final vaccination: 14 to 16 weeks old

Adult cats need an annual booster to maintain immunity. Always bring a copy of your cat’s vaccination certificate when checking in.

What If Your Cat Isn’t Vaccinated?

Unvaccinated cats are more likely to catch or spread contagious diseases. For the safety of all guests, Paws Hotel cannot accept any cat that has not received the required F3 vaccination.

If your cat’s vaccination has expired or lapsed, we recommend booking an appointment with your vet right away. Your vet can provide a booster and confirm when it’s safe for your cat to stay at a boarding facility.

How Paws Hotel Keeps Cats Safe and Comfortable

Vaccination is just one part of how we keep every cat healthy. At Paws Hotel in Melbourne, both our Springvale and Altona locations are designed to provide a calm, hygienic, and enjoyable experience for your cat.

Our Cattery in Melbourne  includes private suites, natural ventilation, and plenty of playtime and attention from our caring staff. We clean and sanitise every area daily and keep food and water bowls spotless. Each cat receives individual care and affection to make their stay as relaxing as possible.

Final Thoughts

So, what vaccines do cats need to be boarded? The essential requirement is the F3 vaccination, which protects against feline enteritis, calicivirus, and herpesvirus. Some cats may also benefit from additional vaccines such as FIV or FeLV.

At Paws Hotel, we’re proud to provide a safe and caring environment for every guest. Whether your feline friend is staying at our cattery in Springvale or our cat boarding facility in Altona, you can trust us to treat them like family.