Rabies Vaccine for Cats

Required protection for cats in Vero Beach, Florida

Rabies is a serious and fatal disease that can affect both animals and people.

Florida law requires rabies vaccination for cats, including cats that live primarily indoors. At Mermaid SANDS, we provide rabies vaccines for cats as part of a focused care model that supports individual pets and the broader Vero Beach and Indian River County community.

Cat waiting at the vet for a rabies vaccine

Why the rabies vaccine matters for cats

Rabies is transmitted through bites or saliva exposure from infected animals, including bats and other wildlife that may enter homes.

Vaccinating your cat against rabies:

Protects your cat from a fatal disease
Helps protect people and other pets in the household
Keeps your cat in compliance with Florida law
Reduces the risk of quarantine or euthanasia after a bite incident

Even indoor cats are at risk, which is why vaccination is required regardless of lifestyle.

Rabies vaccination requirements in Florida & Indian River County

Under Florida state law, all cats four months of age or older must be vaccinated against rabies by a licensed veterinarian.

After the initial rabies vaccine:

A booster is required one year later
Additional boosters are required according to the vaccine’s labeled schedule (typically every one or three years)

In Indian River County, cats must have a current rabies vaccination to obtain and renew a county pet license. Proof of vaccination may be required by animal control or local authorities.

These requirements are in place to protect pets, families, and the public.

How rabies vaccination works at Mermaid SANDS

Mermaid SANDS is designed to focus on high-impact primary procedures, such as spay, neuter, and dental cleanings.

For that reason, rabies vaccination for cats is offered as an add-on service for cats already scheduled for a primary procedure. This allows us to operate efficiently while expanding access to essential care.

Rabies vaccines are not offered as standalone appointments at this time.

Is this service a good fit for my cat?

Rabies vaccination may be added to your cat’s visit if they:

Are already scheduled for a primary procedure
Meet basic health and safety requirements at the time of vaccination

Eligibility is reviewed during scheduling to ensure vaccination is appropriate.

Learn more about our eligibility and safety guidelines

What to expect at your pet’s visit

When rabies vaccination is added to a scheduled procedure:

The vaccine is administered by trained veterinary staff
Your pet is monitored for any immediate reactions
You’ll receive a rabies vaccination certificate documenting the date and vaccine details

Due to the size and scope of our clinic, rabies tags are not issued on-site. Rabies tags are provided by Indian River County and can be obtained directly through the county using your rabies certificate.

This approach allows us to remain focused on providing safe, efficient medical care while ensuring pets remain compliant with local regulations.

Most pets tolerate the rabies vaccine very well, with minimal and temporary side effects.