In the Philippines, rabies is a serious and often fatal disease commonly transmitted by both cats and dogs. That’s why vaccinating your cat against rabies isn’t just a precaution, it’s an important step in protecting your pet, your family, and your community.

But while vaccines are essential, many pet owners don’t avail of them right away. Sometimes it’s because the process feels confusing, or because the costs seem out of reach.

So, if you’re wondering when to vaccinate your pusa against rabies, how often boosters are needed, or what the shots might cost, this guide covers all the info every responsible cat owner should know.

Why Do Cats Need Rabies Vaccines?

Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the brain and nervous system of mammals. It is usually spread through bites or saliva or even scratches from infected animals. Once symptoms appear, it’s almost always fatal.

You might ask, “But what if my cat stays indoors and never interacts with animals that might be carrying the rabies, should I still have it vaccinated?” 

The answer is, yes, you should still have your feline vaccinated. “Even if your cat stays indoors, rabies vaccinations are still necessary. Cats can accidentally slip outside, encounter wild animals, or even be exposed to bats or rodents inside the home,” said Laurel Veterinary Clinic.

In those scenarios, vaccination is your cat’s only reliable protection, and by extension, your protection too.

According to the Department of Health (DOH), the death toll from 2020 through 2024 reached 1,750, making the Philippines rank sixth globally in terms of rabies cases. 

“The fatality rate was 100% in cases recorded in 2024,” said DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa in a statement. “The Department urges the public to ensure that their pets are vaccinated annually to prevent rabies infection.”

When Should Cats Be Vaccinated Against Rabies?

Although cats are not born with rabies, they could eventually contract the disease if or when they start interacting with infected animals. So you should get your pet vaccinated as early as possible.

How early is early? Veterinarians recommend giving kuting its first rabies vaccine at 3-4 months old, but not earlier, as kittens may still have maternal antibodies that would interfere with vaccine effectiveness.

“This initial shot helps build their immunity and protects them from potential exposure to the virus,” explained Laurel Veterinary Clinic. “Once vaccinated, kittens should avoid outdoor interactions with unknown animals until they are fully protected.”

From there, a booster shot is given one year after the first dose to ensure Muning’s immunity remains strong.

Then, additional boosters are given every one to three years, depending on your vet’s recommendation and the brand of vaccine used. “Regardless of which vaccine your veterinarian recommends, it’s crucial to stay on schedule to maintain your cat’s immunity,” said Laurel Veterinary Clinic.

Rabies Vaccination Schedule for Cats:

How Much Does a Rabies Vaccine Cost in the Philippines? 

The cost of a rabies vaccine for cats in the Philippines can vary widely depending on where you go, the type of vaccine used, and whether the clinic is private, government-run, or an NGO.

Private Veterinary Clinics

Prices vary depending on the clinic’s location and reputation. Private clinics may charge around ₱190-₱500, with many offering a full check-up along with the vaccine. 

Although their rates are typically higher than those of city veterinary offices and NGOs, private clinics are more convenient and accessible, as you can find at least one in every district or barangay.

An example would be Aycardo Veterinary Center, which offers rabies vaccinations for cats for ₱195 (as of writing, June 2025). They have branches in Cebu, Talisay, and Mandaue City.

City or Municipal Veterinary Offices

Every local government unit (LGU) in the Philippines aims to reduce or fully prevent rabies-related deaths, so they subsidize veterinary services like vaccinations. The estimated cost of a rabies vaccine at an LGU is around ₱50-₱100, but can even be availed for free during events like vaccination drives.

In Quezon City, for example, the city’s veterinary department promoted March as Rabies Awareness Month by offering free rabies vaccinations, spay/neuter, deworming, and microchipping, among other services. QC LGU does events like this throughout the year around the city.

“By offering these services and information, we have helped create a safer environment for both pets and their owners, furthering our goal of a rabies-free Philippines…” the Quezon City Veterinary Department wrote.

While getting a rabies vaccine at your city’s vet office is cheaper, downsides could include:

• Long wait times (due to many pet owners availing the cheaper services).
• It could be appointments only. No walk-ins to avoid crowding.
• Vaccines may be in short supply, especially in far-flung areas of the country.

Be sure to call your LGU to ask about prices and availability before heading there. Or better yet, ask if they also do house-to-house vaccinations, just like the one in Bacolod City to save on transpo expenses.

Animal Welfare Organizations

Several animal welfare organizations in the Philippines offer affordable veterinary services, including rabies vaccinations. 

For example, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) provides rabies shots for only ₱200, along with deworming services. These are available every Tuesday and Friday, and pet owners must fill out a registration form before availing of the services.

The Philippine Pet Birth Control Center Foundation (PPBCC), meanwhile, offers free rabies vaccinations for those who avail of their low-cost spay/neuter (kapon) services. Like PAWS, slots are limited and tend to fill up quickly. It’s best to check their official Facebook pages for updates and call in advance to reserve a spot.

When you choose to support NGOs like these, you’re not just protecting your own cat, but you’re also helping fund their ongoing efforts to rescue, treat, and care for other animals in need.

Conclusion

Rabies is 100% preventable, but only if you take action. Vaccinating your cat protects them, you, and everyone they come into contact with. So don’t wait. Schedule your cat’s rabies vaccine today, and mark your calendar for next year’s booster.