Cat Vaccination Requirements for Boarding in Ontario

One of the most common reasons we have to decline a cat boarding request at bbcat is simple: the cat’s rabies vaccination is out of date. It happens more often than you’d think, even with caring, well-intentioned cat parents.

We’re not trying to be difficult. Vaccination requirements are there to protect every cat in our home — including yours.

It’s the law in Ontario

In Ontario, it is a legal requirement to vaccinate your cat against rabies. Under the Health Protection and Promotion Act, cats must receive their first rabies vaccination by 3 months of age. This applies to indoor cats too — no exceptions.

After the initial vaccination, your cat must:

  • Receive a booster shot within 1 year of the first vaccination
  • Then be vaccinated every 1 to 3 years, depending on the vaccine your vet uses

This schedule must be maintained for your cat’s entire life. If your cat is not current on rabies vaccination, you could face fines, and more importantly, your cat is unprotected.

Why we also require FVRCP

In addition to rabies, we require that all cats boarding at bbcat be up to date on the FVRCP vaccine (Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia). This combination vaccine protects against some of the most common and contagious feline illnesses.

In a communal environment, even healthy-seeming cats can carry and transmit respiratory viruses. FVRCP vaccination is the single most effective way to reduce that risk for all cats in our home.

We recommend an annual FVRCP booster for any cat who spends time with other cats — boarding or otherwise.

How to check your cat’s vaccination status

  1. Look for your cat’s vaccination record from their vet (most clinics issue a certificate)
  2. If you’re unsure, call your vet — they can tell you when the last vaccines were given and whether boosters are due
  3. Book a vet visit if anything is out of date. It’s a quick appointment and a small cost compared to the alternative

When you book with bbcat, we’ll ask you to upload proof of vaccination as part of the intake process. If anything is expired, we’ll let you know before the stay so there’s no last-minute surprise.

Please keep your cat’s vaccinations current — it protects them, it protects every other cat in our home, and it means we can say yes to your booking.

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