๐พ How Much Are Kitten Shots at PetSmart? A Complete Pricing Guide for New Pet Parents
When bringing a new kitten into your home, vaccinations are one of the most critical steps in ensuring their long-term health and well-being. If youโre considering PetSmart for your kittenโs shots, youโll likely be choosing between ShotVet and Banfield Pet Hospital, which both offer veterinary services at PetSmart locations.
Prices vary depending on the type of vaccine, location, and package deals, but this guide will break down everything you need to know about kitten vaccination costs at PetSmart, including what vaccines your kitten needs, how often, and how to save money.
๐ Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Questions
๐ How much do kitten shots cost at PetSmart? Individual vaccines range from $20 to $42, while package deals cost between $79 and $189, depending on the provider and services included.
๐ What vaccines does my kitten need? The three core vaccines are FVRCP (feline viral diseases), Rabies, and FeLV (feline leukemia for at-risk kittens).
๐ Whatโs the cheapest way to vaccinate a kitten at PetSmart? Bundle packages from ShotVet offer better value, especially for multi-shot series.
๐ Do I need to pay an exam fee? If using Banfield Pet Hospital, a one-time exam fee ($40-$60) may apply. ShotVet does not charge exam fees.
๐ Are there extra fees? ShotVet adds a $5 biohazard disposal fee per vaccine.
๐ How many vaccines does my kitten need? Three rounds of core vaccinations are needed, beginning at 6-8 weeks old and repeated every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks old.
๐ How can I find the best deal? Check local PetSmart pricing for ShotVet or Banfield and compare package vs. individual pricing for better savings.
๐ฉบ What Vaccines Does My Kitten Need?
๐ Essential Kitten Vaccines & What They Protect Against
Vaccine ๐ | What It Protects Against ๐ฑ | Cost at PetSmart ๐ฐ | When Itโs Needed ๐ |
---|---|---|---|
FVRCP ๐ฆ | Protects against feline viral diseases: Feline herpesvirus, Calicivirus, Panleukopenia (feline distemper) | $35 (ShotVet) | Given at 6-8 weeks, then boosters every 3-4 weeks until 16 weeks |
Rabies ๐ฆ | Prevents the fatal Rabies virus, required by law in most states | $29 (ShotVet) | Given at 12-16 weeks, then boosters annually or every 3 years |
FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) ๐ฆ | Recommended for kittens at risk of outdoor exposure | $42 (ShotVet) | Given at 8-12 weeks, requires booster in 3-4 weeks |
๐ก Tip: The FVRCP vaccine is the most crucial for kittens and is always required. Rabies is legally required in many states, while FeLV is optional but highly recommended for at-risk kittens.
๐ฆ How Much Do Kitten Vaccination Packages Cost at PetSmart?
If your kitten needs multiple vaccines, getting a package may be more cost-effective than paying for individual shots.
๐ Kitten Vaccination Packages at PetSmart (ShotVet & Banfield)
Package Name ๐ฆ | Included Vaccines ๐ | Cost ๐ฐ | Best For… โ |
---|---|---|---|
PureVax Kitten Club Package ๐ | FVRCP, Rabies, FeLV, deworming | $189 | Best value for full protection |
PureVax Kitten A ๐ | FVRCP, deworming | $79 | Kittens not at risk for FeLV |
PureVax Kitten C ๐ | FVRCP, FeLV, Rabies, deworming | $139 | Comprehensive protection with cost savings |
Banfield Individual Vaccines ๐ฅ | FVRCP, Rabies, FeLV (sold separately) | $24-$45 per shot | Good for pet parents preferring pay-as-you-go |
๐ก Tip: ShotVetโs Kitten Club Package is the best value if your kitten needs all vaccines. However, if FeLV is unnecessary, PureVax Kitten A is a good budget-friendly option.
๐ต Are There Additional Costs at PetSmart for Kitten Vaccines?
๐ Additional Fees to Expect at PetSmart Veterinary Services
Fee Type ๐ฐ | Cost at ShotVet ๐ | Cost at Banfield ๐ฅ |
---|---|---|
Exam Fee ๐ฅ | No exam fee | $40-$60 for initial visit |
Biohazard Fee โ ๏ธ | $5 per vaccine | No biohazard fee |
Deworming (Optional Add-On) ๐ชฑ | Included in most packages | $10-$20 extra |
๐ก Tip: Banfield requires an exam fee for vaccinations, but ShotVet does not. If your kitten only needs vaccines and not a health exam, ShotVet is the more affordable option.
๐ How Often Do Kittens Need Shots?
๐ Kitten Vaccine Schedule from 6-16 Weeks Old
Kitten Age ๐ | Vaccines Needed ๐ |
---|---|
6-8 weeks | FVRCP (1st dose), Deworming |
10-12 weeks | FVRCP (2nd dose), FeLV (if needed), Deworming |
14-16 weeks | FVRCP (final dose), Rabies, FeLV booster (if needed) |
๐ก Tip: If you adopt a kitten at 8+ weeks old, ask the shelter or breeder for vaccine records so you donโt duplicate shots unnecessarily.
๐๏ธ How to Save Money on Kitten Shots at PetSmart
๐ Money-Saving Tips for PetSmart Vaccinations
Savings Tip ๐ฐ | How It Works โ | Estimated Savings ๐ต |
---|---|---|
Choose a Package Deal ๐ | Bundles multiple vaccines into one lower price | $30-$50 savings |
Go to ShotVet Instead of Banfield ๐ฅ | Avoids the $40-$60 exam fee | $40+ savings |
Ask About Local Promotions ๐๏ธ | PetSmart sometimes offers vaccine discounts | Varies |
Check for Free Rabies Clinics ๐ | Some local shelters offer free Rabies vaccines | $29 savings |
๐ก Tip: Always compare package pricing to individual vaccine costsโif your kitten only needs 1-2 vaccines, paying individually might be cheaper than a full package.
๐ Final Thoughts: Whatโs the Best Kitten Shot Option at PetSmart?
๐ Best Overall Value? ShotVetโs PureVax Kitten Club Package ($189) includes all core vaccines and deworming for long-term savings.
๐ Best Budget-Friendly Option? ShotVetโs PureVax Kitten A ($79) covers FVRCP and dewormingโperfect if you donโt need FeLV.
๐ Best Pay-As-You-Go Option? Banfieldโs individual vaccines ($24-$45 per shot) work well if you only need 1-2 shots at a time.
๐ How to Avoid Extra Fees? Use ShotVet (no exam fees) and check for local vaccine promotions.
๐ข Still have questions about kitten shots at PetSmart? Drop them below, and weโll provide expert advice to ensure your kitten gets the best care at the best price! ๐ฌ๐พ
FAQs
Comment 1: “Are there any discounts for kitten shots at PetSmart?”
๐ฐ Yes! There are multiple ways to save on kitten vaccinations at PetSmart, including bundled packages, local promotions, and wellness plans. Hereโs a breakdown of the best ways to reduce costs.
๐ Ways to Save Money on Kitten Shots at PetSmart
Discount Option ๐ต | How It Works โ | Estimated Savings ๐ฐ | Where to Find It ๐ |
---|---|---|---|
ShotVet Package Deals ๐ | Bundles multiple vaccines into one discounted price | $30-$50 savings | ShotVet at PetSmart locations |
Banfield Wellness Plans ๐ฅ | Monthly membership covering vaccines + vet visits | Varies by plan | Banfield Pet Hospital (PetSmart) |
Local PetSmart Promotions ๐๏ธ | Limited-time discount days on vaccines | $10-$25 savings | Check PetSmartโs website or in-store flyers |
Free Rabies Clinics ๐พ | Some shelters and cities offer free Rabies shots | $29 savings | Local animal control or shelters |
๐ก Tip: Ask PetSmart associates about upcoming ShotVet promotions, as they often run seasonal discount events on vaccinations.
Comment 2: “Is the FVRCP vaccine really necessary, or can I skip it?”
๐ฆ The FVRCP vaccine is absolutely essential for kittens! It protects against three highly contagious and potentially fatal feline diseases: Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.
๐ What Happens If a Kitten Skips the FVRCP Vaccine?
Disease ๐จ | How It Affects Kittens โ | Why FVRCP Is Critical โ |
---|---|---|
Feline Rhinotracheitis (Herpesvirus) ๐ฆ | Severe respiratory infections, eye ulcers, lifelong flare-ups | Prevents long-term respiratory problems |
Calicivirus ๐ค | Mouth ulcers, joint pain, pneumonia | Reduces risk of chronic illness |
Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper) โ ๏ธ | High fever, vomiting, often fatal | Provides nearly 100% protection |
๐ก Tip: Skipping the FVRCP vaccine puts your kitten at serious risk of life-threatening illnesses. The cost of treating these diseases is far higher than the vaccine itself!
Comment 3: “Do I need to take my kitten to PetSmart for shots, or can I do them at home?”
๐ While some vaccines are available over-the-counter, administering kitten shots at home is not recommended unless you have veterinary training. Vaccinations require proper storage, dosage accuracy, and correct injection techniques to be effective.
๐ Vet-Administered vs. At-Home Kitten Vaccines
Factor โ ๏ธ | Vet-Administered (PetSmart) ๐ฅ | At-Home Vaccination ๐ก |
---|---|---|
Effectiveness โ | Guaranteed proper dosage and administration | Risk of incorrect handling or administration |
Safety ๐ก๏ธ | Vet-monitored for allergic reactions | No professional oversight |
Cost ๐ฐ | $20-$42 per shot | $10-$25 per vaccine |
Legal Requirements ๐ | Rabies vaccine legally must be given by a vet | Cannot legally self-administer Rabies shots |
๐ก Tip: While at-home vaccinations can be cheaper, Rabies shots must legally be administered by a licensed vet. For safety and reliability, professional administration is recommended.
Comment 4: “How do I know if my kitten had vaccines before I adopted them?”
๐ If you adopted your kitten from a shelter, rescue, or breeder, you should receive a vaccination record. If no records are available, your vet may recommend restarting the vaccine series.
๐ How to Confirm if a Kitten Has Been Vaccinated
Situation ๐ง | What to Do โ | Next Steps ๐ |
---|---|---|
Kitten came with a vaccine record ๐ | Check the dates and types of vaccines given | Continue the series based on vet recommendations |
Kitten was adopted from a shelter ๐ | Most shelters vaccinate before adoption | Ask for documentation from the adoption center |
Kitten was found or given to you ๐ฑ | No way to verify past vaccinations | Start the vaccine series from scratch |
๐ก Tip: If uncertain, your vet can perform a blood test (titer test) to check for existing antibodies, though itโs often cheaper to just restart vaccinations.
Comment 5: “What if my kitten is sneezing after getting vaccines at PetSmart?”
๐คง Mild sneezing after a vaccine is common and usually resolves within 24-48 hours. However, if symptoms worsen or persist, itโs important to consult a vet.
๐ Kitten Vaccine Reactions: Whatโs Normal vs. When to Worry
Reaction ๐จ | Is It Normal? โ โ | What to Do? ๐ฉบ |
---|---|---|
Mild sneezing, runny nose ๐คง | Yes, mild reaction to FVRCP | Monitor for 24-48 hours |
Low energy, slight fever ๐ก๏ธ | Yes, temporary immune response | Ensure hydration and rest |
Swelling at injection site ๐ | Mild swelling is common | Apply a cool compress if needed |
Severe vomiting, difficulty breathing โ ๏ธ | No, possible allergic reaction | Seek emergency vet care immediately |
๐ก Tip: If your kitten shows severe symptoms after vaccination, contact an emergency vet immediatelyโthough serious reactions are rare.
Comment 6: “How soon can my kitten go outside after getting vaccinated?”
๐ก Kittens should remain indoors until they have completed their full vaccination series at around 16 weeks old. Taking them outside too soon exposes them to diseases like FeLV and Feline Distemper.
๐ When Itโs Safe to Let Kittens Outside
Age ๐ | Vaccination Status ๐ | Safe to Go Outside? โ โ |
---|---|---|
6-8 weeks | 1st round of vaccines | โ Too early, immune system still weak |
10-12 weeks | 2nd round of vaccines | โ Still at risk of exposure |
16+ weeks | Completed core vaccines | โ Safe if supervised |
๐ก Tip: If you plan to let your kitten explore outdoors, ask your vet about FeLV and FIV vaccinations for extra protection.
Comment 7: “Do PetSmart’s kitten shots include deworming?”
๐ชฑ ShotVetโs kitten vaccination packages at PetSmart include deworming, while Banfield Pet Hospital may charge separately.
๐ Kitten Vaccination Packages: Deworming Included?
Provider ๐ฅ | Deworming Included? โ โ | Best Package for Deworming ๐ |
---|---|---|
ShotVet ๐พ | โ Yes, in all packages | PureVax Kitten Club ($189) |
Banfield Pet Hospital ๐ฅ | โ No, deworming is separate | Must request during visit |
๐ก Tip: If your kitten hasnโt been dewormed, ask about adding a dewormer during their vaccine appointment to prevent parasites.
Comment 8: “Are there any risks if I delay my kittenโs vaccinations?”
โ ๏ธ Yes, delaying your kittenโs vaccines can leave them vulnerable to serious, often fatal diseases. Kittens have weak immune systems and rely on timely vaccinations to develop protection against deadly viruses like Panleukopenia (feline distemper), Feline Herpesvirus, and Rabies.
๐ Consequences of Delaying Kitten Vaccinations
Risk Factor โ ๏ธ | What Happens If You Delay? โ | Why Vaccination on Time Is Critical โ |
---|---|---|
FVRCP Delay ๐ฆ | Higher risk of deadly viral infections | Protects against severe respiratory and digestive diseases |
Rabies Delay ๐ฅ | Illegal in most states; Rabies is fatal | Required by law, protects humans & pets |
FeLV Delay ๐ซ | Increased chance of leukemia if exposed to infected cats | Essential for outdoor kittens & multi-cat homes |
๐ก Tip: If youโre late on a booster shot, visit PetSmartโs ShotVet or Banfield ASAP to restart the series. Some vaccines require a strict timeline for full effectiveness.
Comment 9: “Do I have to get all of my kittenโs shots at PetSmart, or can I mix and match with another vet?”
๐ You can get kitten vaccines at different locations, but be sure to keep a detailed record to avoid missing a dose or doubling up on shots. Consistency matters for proper immunity development.
๐ Mixing Vaccination Providers: What You Need to Know
Scenario ๐ค | Is It Okay? โ โ | What to Watch Out For โ ๏ธ |
---|---|---|
Started at PetSmart, finishing at a private vet ๐ฅ | โ Yes, as long as records are complete | Confirm correct vaccine brands & intervals |
Switching between Banfield & ShotVet ๐ | โ Not recommended | Different protocols & package pricing |
Vaccines from a shelter, then PetSmart ๐ โก๏ธ๐พ | โ Safe if documented properly | Bring adoption papers with vaccine history |
๐ก Tip: Always bring a vaccine record to each appointment. If you switch vets, request a copy of previous shots to prevent unnecessary repeats or gaps.
Comment 10: “Whatโs the difference between the Rabies shot options at PetSmart?”
๐ There are two main types of Rabies vaccines available: the standard 1-year Rabies shot and the longer-lasting 3-year Rabies vaccine. Which one you need depends on your kittenโs age, lifestyle, and local regulations.
๐ Comparing 1-Year vs. 3-Year Rabies Vaccines for Kittens
Rabies Shot Type ๐ | Duration ๐ | Best For… โ | Cost at PetSmart ๐ฐ |
---|---|---|---|
1-Year Rabies Vaccine ๐ฅ | Protects for 1 year | Required for kittensโ first Rabies shot | $29 (ShotVet) |
3-Year Rabies Vaccine ๐ | Protects for 3 years | Adult cats after first Rabies shot | $45+ (Banfield) |
๐ก Tip: Most states require kittens to receive the 1-year Rabies shot first before being eligible for the 3-year vaccine in adulthood.
Comment 11: “Can I get flea prevention along with kitten shots at PetSmart?”
๐ฆ Yes! ShotVet and Banfield both offer flea and tick preventatives alongside vaccinations. Some ShotVet packages even include flea treatment as an add-on.
๐ Flea & Tick Prevention Options at PetSmart Clinics
Brand ๐พ | Type ๐ | Duration โณ | Estimated Cost ๐ฐ |
---|---|---|---|
Frontline Plus ๐ฆ | Topical | Monthly | $50-$70 for 3 months |
Revolution ๐พ | Topical | Monthly | $80-$100 for 3 months |
Bravecto ๐ | Oral Chew | Every 3 months | $60-$70 per dose |
๐ก Tip: Ask about bundling flea treatment with kitten shots to save money on your visit.
Comment 12: “Does my kitten need a microchip at the same time as vaccinations?”
๐ While not required, microchipping your kitten at the same time as their vaccines is a great idea. Many shelters and vets recommend it to increase the chances of reuniting with your pet if they ever get lost.
๐ Should You Microchip Your Kitten During Vaccinations?
Factor ๐ท๏ธ | Why Itโs a Good Idea โ | Cost at PetSmart ๐ฐ |
---|---|---|
Permanent Identification ๐ | Helps find lost pets even without a collar | $25-$50 |
Quick & Painless Procedure โณ | Feels like a regular injection, takes seconds | Often discounted when bundled with vaccines |
Lifetime Registration ๐ | Once chipped, your cat is always traceable | One-time fee, no renewal required |
๐ก Tip: If youโre getting a microchip, ensure itโs registered immediately with updated contact info. A chip is useless if not linked to your details.
Comment 13: “Can I get my kitten vaccinated at PetSmart without an appointment?”
๐ It depends on whether youโre using ShotVet or Banfield.
๐ Walk-In vs. Appointment-Only Vaccination Services at PetSmart
Service ๐ฅ | Walk-Ins Allowed? โ โ | Appointment Needed? ๐ |
---|---|---|
ShotVet (Weekend Clinics) ๐ฅ | โ Yes, but first-come, first-served | โ Not required |
Banfield Pet Hospital ๐ฅ | โ No, must schedule in advance | โ Required |
๐ก Tip: ShotVet runs pop-up clinics at PetSmart on weekends, while Banfield requires pre-booking. If you prefer walk-ins, check PetSmartโs event calendar for ShotVet schedules.
Comment 14: “What if my kitten has a bad reaction to a vaccine at PetSmart?”
๐จ Severe vaccine reactions are rare, but itโs important to recognize warning signs.
๐ Whatโs Normal vs. When to Seek Emergency Care After Vaccinations
Reaction โ | Is It Normal? โ โ | What to Do? ๐ฅ |
---|---|---|
Mild swelling at injection site ๐ | โ Yes | Apply a cool compress, monitor for 24 hours |
Mild lethargy or sleepiness ๐ด | โ Yes | Allow rest, provide water |
Vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite ๐คข | โ Unusual | Contact PetSmartโs vet services |
Severe swelling, difficulty breathing ๐จ | โ Emergency | Seek immediate emergency vet care |
๐ก Tip: If your kitten experiences a serious reaction, contact an emergency vet immediately. PetSmart clinics can guide you, but emergency care may be needed.