Yes, most indoor cats still need core vaccinations and regular veterinary visits, even if they never go outside. “Indoor only” reduces some risks, but it does not eliminate them. Many cats slip out briefly, live with dogs or other cats that go outdoors, or encounter pathogens carried in on shoes and clothing.

Core feline vaccines commonly include protection against panleukopenia (feline distemper), herpesvirus, calicivirus, and rabies where required by law. Rabies is fatal, transmissible to humans, and sometimes mandated regardless of lifestyle. Your veterinarian will tailor the schedule to local regulations and your cat’s health.

Non-core vaccines, such as those for feline leukemia virus, are often recommended for kittens, cats with outdoor access, or cats in multi-cat environments with unknown status. An indoor adult with stable housemates may not need every non-core product, but that decision should be medical, not guesswork.

Vaccination visits are also a chance to discuss nutrition, dental pain, weight trends, and subtle behavior changes. Indoor cats can develop obesity, arthritis, dental disease, and chronic kidney issues that show up sooner when a vet sees them regularly.

If your cat has had vaccine reactions in the past, or has immune-mediated disease, tell your clinic before injections. They may adjust protocols or use extended intervals based on guidelines and titre testing where appropriate. Always follow a plan you develop with a licensed veterinarian rather than skipping shots entirely based on online anecdotes.