How Often Should You Vaccinate Your Pet in Nairobi?

Vaccination is one of the most important things you can do for your pet's long-term health. Yet many pet owners in Nairobi are unsure which vaccines their dog or cat needs, how often to repeat them, and what the legal requirements are in Kenya. This guide from our Westlands Paws veterinary team gives you the full picture.

Why Vaccination Matters in Nairobi

Unlike colder countries where winter interrupts disease transmission, Nairobi's warm, humid climate means pathogens like Parvovirus, Distemper, and Rabies circulate year-round. Dogs and cats that go for walks, visit parks, or interact with other animals are regularly exposed. Vaccination is the most cost-effective way to prevent serious illness — and in the case of Rabies, it is a legal requirement in Kenya.

Core Vaccines for Dogs in Kenya

DHPP (4-in-1 Vaccine)

Protects against Distemper, Infectious Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus. Parvovirus is devastatingly common in Nairobi — we see unvaccinated dogs die from it every week. Puppies need three doses starting at 8 weeks, followed by annual boosters.

Rabies

Legally required in Kenya under the Public Health Act. First dose at 12–16 weeks, renewed annually. Any unvaccinated dog bitten by a suspected rabid animal may legally be required to be euthanised by authorities. Don't skip this one.

Leptospirosis

Particularly important in Nairobi, where flooding and contact with rodents is common. Leptospirosis is also transmissible to humans. Recommended for all dogs in urban Nairobi.

Core Vaccines for Cats in Kenya

FVRCP (3-in-1 Vaccine)

Protects against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (cat distemper). All three are widespread in Nairobi, including in indoor cats that never go outside. Start at 8 weeks, boost at 10 and 12 weeks, then annually.

Rabies (Cats)

Often overlooked — cats in Nairobi are equally exposed to rabies through contact with wildlife or street dogs. Required annually.

Feline Leukaemia (FeLV)

Recommended for outdoor cats or those in multi-cat households. FeLV suppresses the immune system and can be fatal — but is entirely preventable with vaccination.

Puppy & Kitten Vaccination Schedule

The first 16 weeks of your pet's life is the most critical vaccination window:

• 6 weeks: First deworming
• 8 weeks: DHPP / FVRCP — First dose + deworming
• 10–12 weeks: DHPP / FVRCP — Second dose + Bordetella / FeLV
• 14–16 weeks: DHPP / FVRCP — Final dose + Rabies
• 12 months: First annual booster for all vaccines

Use our free Pet Vaccine Calculator to generate a personalised schedule based on your pet's date of birth.

Do Annual Boosters Really Matter?

Yes. For Rabies, annual boosters are legally required in Kenya. For other core vaccines, your vet may recommend annual or three-yearly boosters depending on the vaccine and your pet's lifestyle. At Westlands Paws we tailor booster schedules individually — we won't over-vaccinate, but we won't leave your pet unprotected either.

Ready to protect your pet? Book a vaccination appointment at our vet clinic in Westlands Nairobi, or check our vaccination service page →

Need a Vet in Westlands, Nairobi?

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