Mohammad Ravand, Author at ZVC Veterinary Center

April 2, 2026

Complete Pet Vaccination Guide for Cats & Dogs in UAE

Introduction

Keeping your pet safe and healthy starts with proper vaccination.

In the UAE, pet vaccination is essential to protect your cat or dog from serious and life-threatening diseases. Whether you have a puppy, kitten, or adult pet, following the correct vaccination schedule ensures a longer and healthier life.

Why Are Pet Vaccines Important?

Vaccinations play a vital role in protecting your pet’s health by strengthening their immune system against harmful viruses and bacteria. Regular pet vaccinations are one of the most effective ways to prevent serious and life-threatening diseases.

They are essential because they help protect against illnesses that are:

Highly contagious and easily spread between animals
Expensive and complex to treat, often requiring long-term care
Potentially fatal, especially in unvaccinated pets

In addition, certain diseases such as rabies can be transmitted from animals to humans. This makes pet vaccination not only crucial for your pet’s wellbeing but also a key part of public health and safety in the UAE.

Ensuring your pet is up to date with vaccinations helps create a safer environment for your family, your community, and other animals.

Dog Vaccination Schedule in UAE

Core Vaccines for Dogs

Parvovirus – Protects against a highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting, bloody diarrhea, dehydration, and can be fatal, especially in puppies. Vaccination is crucial because the virus survives in the environment and spreads easily in public areas.
Distemper – Guards against a serious viral disease that affects the respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems. It can lead to seizures, paralysis, and death, making early vaccination essential for long-term protection.
Adenovirus (Canine Hepatitis) – Prevents a viral infection that targets the liver, kidneys, and eyes. This disease can cause fever, abdominal pain, and liver failure, and spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids.
Rabies – A fatal viral disease that attacks the nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Rabies vaccination is mandatory in the UAE and is critical for both pet safety and public health compliance.

Optional Dog Vaccines

Kennel Cough (Bordetella) – Recommended for dogs that socialize frequently (boarding, grooming, parks). It protects against a contagious respiratory infection that causes persistent coughing and discomfort.
Leptospirosis – Protects against a bacterial infection spread through contaminated water or soil. It can cause kidney and liver damage and is also transmissible to humans, making it important in certain environments.
Canine Influenza – Helps prevent a contagious respiratory virus that spreads in high-density dog environments. It can cause coughing, fever, and reduced energy levels.

Puppy Vaccination Timeline

Start at 6–8 weeks
Repeat every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks
Booster at 1 year
Annual or vet-recommended boosters

Cat Vaccination Schedule in UAE

Core Vaccines for Cats

Feline Panleukopenia (FPV) – Protects against a highly contagious and often fatal virus that weakens the immune system, causing severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Kittens are especially vulnerable.
Feline Herpesvirus (FHV-1) – Prevents a common respiratory infection that causes sneezing, eye discharge, and long-term respiratory issues. Once infected, cats may carry the virus for life.
Feline Calicivirus (FCV) – Protects against a virus that causes oral ulcers, respiratory infections, and joint pain. It spreads easily between cats, especially in multi-cat environments.
Rabies – A fatal disease that affects the nervous system and can be transmitted to humans. Rabies vaccination is required in the UAE for cats as part of public health regulations.

Optional Cat Vaccines

Feline Leukemia (FeLV) – Recommended for outdoor cats or those exposed to other cats. This virus weakens the immune system, increases cancer risk, and spreads through close contact such as grooming or shared food bowls.

Kitten Vaccination Timeline

Start at 6–8 weeks
Repeat every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks
Booster at 1 year
Regular boosters as advised by your vet

What to Expect After Pet Vaccination

Most pets tolerate vaccinations very well, and side effects are usually mild and temporary. After your pet’s vaccination, you may notice:

Slight tiredness or reduced activity as their body responds to the vaccine
Mild fever, which is a normal sign that the immune system is reacting
Small swelling or tenderness at the injection site

These mild reactions typically resolve on their own within 24–48 hours without any treatment. However, in rare cases, pets may experience more serious reactions. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice:

Vomiting or diarrhea
Facial swelling or hives
Difficulty breathing or excessive weakness

Monitoring your pet after vaccination helps ensure their safety and allows for quick action if needed. Overall, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, providing essential protection against serious diseases.

Keeping Your Pet Protected

Follow your veterinarian’s recommended vaccination schedule to ensure timely protection against common diseases
Maintain an up-to-date vaccination record for travel, boarding, and routine check-ups
Don’t skip booster shots—they are essential to maintain your pet’s long-term immunity and protection

Staying consistent with your pet’s vaccinations helps keep them healthy, safe, and protected throughout every stage of life.

Where to Get Pet Vaccination in Abu Dhabi?

At ZVC Veterinary Center, our team of qualified veterinarians and dedicated staff are always ready to assist, guide, and care for your pet at every step. From personalized vaccination plans to routine health check-ups, we ensure your pet receives the highest standard of care in a safe and comfortable environment.

We focus on:

Professional veterinary expertise you can trust
Tailored vaccination schedules based on your pet’s needs and lifestyle
Comprehensive health support beyond vaccinations

Regular check-ups combined with timely vaccinations help keep your pet protected all year round. Choosing the right veterinary clinic makes all the difference—and at ZVC, your pet’s health and wellbeing always come first.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How often should pets be vaccinated?
A: Puppies and kittens need multiple doses early on, followed by yearly or vet-recommended boosters.

Q: Is rabies vaccination mandatory in UAE?
A: Yes, rabies vaccination is required by law in the UAE.

Q: Can indoor pets skip vaccines?
A: No, even indoor pets need core vaccines for full protection.

Book Your Pet’s Vaccination Today
Ensure your pet stays safe and healthy. Contact our veterinary team to schedule your pet’s vaccination in Abu Dhabi.

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April 1, 2026

Mohammad RavandCAREFOODhydration

Nutrition & Hydration in Cats

Understanding Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs

Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they must eat animal-based protein to stay healthy. A quality cat food should list a named meat (such as chicken, turkey, or salmon) as the first ingredient. Protein supports muscle strength, immune function, and energy.

Cats also need essential nutrients like taurine, vitamin A, and arachidonic acid, which are found naturally in animal tissues. Feeding dog food or improperly balanced homemade diets can lead to serious deficiencies.

Choosing the Right Food

Select a complete and balanced food designed for your cat’s life stage—kitten, adult, or senior.

Portion control is important, as overfeeding can cause obesity and related health issues such as diabetes and joint pain. Follow feeding guidelines and monitor your cat’s body condition.

Treats should be limited to no more than 10% of daily calories.

The Importance of Hydration

Cats often do not drink enough water on their own, which can increase the risk of urinary tract and kidney problems.

Always provide fresh, clean water in an easily accessible location.

Many cats prefer water fountains, as moving water is more appealing to them.

Wet vs. Dry Food

Wet (canned) food contains a high moisture content and can significantly improve hydration.

Dry food can be convenient and may help with dental health.

Many cats benefit from a combination of both, supporting balanced nutrition and adequate water intake.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

Changes in appetite, drinking habits, or weight may signal a health issue.

Regular veterinary checkups help ensure your cat’s diet and hydration needs are being met for a long, healthy life.

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April 1, 2026

Mohammad RavandFace care

Nutrition & Hydration in Dogs

A Guide to Keeping Your Dog Healthy

Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for maintaining your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Understanding your dog’s dietary needs can help prevent common health issues and support a longer, healthier, and more comfortable life.

Understanding Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs

Every dog has different nutritional requirements depending on factors such as age, breed, size, activity level, and overall health.

By understanding the basics of dog nutrition, pet owners can make informed decisions when choosing food and establishing feeding routines. A well-planned diet helps maintain strong muscles, healthy organs, and proper energy levels while reducing the risk of many health problems.

Providing Balanced Nutrition

Dogs require a balanced diet that includes:

Protein – Supports muscle growth and tissue repair
Fats – Provide energy and maintain healthy skin and coat
Carbohydrates – Aid digestion and supply additional energy
Vitamins and minerals – Support overall body functions and immune health

Many pet owners rely on high-quality commercial dog food designed to meet these nutritional needs. When selecting dog food, it is important to choose a product appropriate for your dog’s age, breed, size, and activity level.

The Importance of Hydration

Water plays a critical role in your dog’s health. It supports digestion, circulation, and temperature regulation.

Dogs should always have access to fresh, clean water throughout the day. Some dogs may require more water intake, including:

Dogs eating mostly dry food
Highly active dogs
Dogs living in hot climates

Dehydration can quickly affect a dog’s health, so monitoring your dog’s water intake is essential.

Wet vs. Dry Dog Food

Both wet and dry dog foods can provide complete and balanced nutrition when properly formulated.

Dry food benefits:

Convenient and easy to store
More economical
May help reduce dental plaque

Wet food benefits:

Higher moisture content
Supports hydration
Often easier for dogs with dental issues or reduced appetite

Many pet owners choose to combine wet and dry food to provide the benefits of both options.

When to Seek Veterinary Advice

You should consult a veterinarian if your dog shows any of the following symptoms:

Sudden changes in appetite
Significant increase or decrease in water intake
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent digestive issues
Lethargy or unusual behavior
Signs of dehydration such as dry gums

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May 18, 2021

Mohammad RavandHEALTH

The Best Personalized Dog Collars

Whether your pup is a mile-a-minute, hyperactive Energizer battery on four legs or they just can’t handle those car rides or unexpected visitors, getting them to calm down is an invaluable skill. Keeping or getting your dog calm has many benefits, such as preventing possible accidents, fear-related behaviors, and reducing blood pressure. When a dog is going full force, they risk the possibility of running into traffic, disobeying, or otherwise getting hurt. Hyperactivity isn’t only a young dog issue; it can continue well into adult years. Some dog breeds are more energetic than others, so keep that in mind if you’re faced with a choice.

Dogs that are anxious or nervous run the risk of fear-biting or other dog fights, or just going through that terrible nervous feeling that elevates stress and that none of us appreciate. Anxiety can be something that a dog is born with or something that comes on due to an event in their life. Either way, learning how to calm them down will help them feel better.

Provide a Safe Spot

Few things feel better to a dog when they’re overwhelmed with excitement or anxiety than a dark, quiet spot. It helps remove distractions so your dog can focus on the task at hand. It also removes those scary or frightening stimuli to allow heart rates and blood pressures to drop. For dogs that are chronically anxious or hyperactive, try to keep that safe spot the same. Don’t switch it up each time they have to go there or it won’t feel comforting to them. Make it a kennel or a small room that they can access on their own if needed.

There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around. OLIVER SANDERO

Train Them to Settle and Focus

All dogs perform better when they have a job. Sometimes that job can be as simple as listening and focusing on you. You are also the center of your dog’s universe, so use that to your advantage when trying to calm them down. Dogs that are anxious and those that are energetic can be trained to calm down in the same way.

Firstly, when your dog gets worked up give them a verbal cue that works to both catch their attention and provides them with something to do. That cue can be “sit,” “down,” or even “relax.” You just want to make sure you can use it consistently.
Secondly, use the word until your dog performs the behavior that you want, such as lying down, sitting at your feet, or even just stopping what they are doing and looking at you. You may have to show them what to do the first few times until they get the hang of it.

LEARN MORE

There are no secrets to success. It is the result of preparation, hard work, and learning failure.

OLIVER SANDERO

May 18, 2021

Mohammad Ravandhydration

The Best High Fiber Dog Food

Whether your pup is a mile-a-minute, hyperactive Energizer battery on four legs or they just can’t handle those car rides or unexpected visitors, getting them to calm down is an invaluable skill. Keeping or getting your dog calm has many benefits, such as preventing possible accidents, fear-related behaviors, and reducing blood pressure. When a dog is going full force, they risk the possibility of running into traffic, disobeying, or otherwise getting hurt. Hyperactivity isn’t only a young dog issue; it can continue well into adult years. Some dog breeds are more energetic than others, so keep that in mind if you’re faced with a choice.

Dogs that are anxious or nervous run the risk of fear-biting or other dog fights, or just going through that terrible nervous feeling that elevates stress and that none of us appreciate. Anxiety can be something that a dog is born with or something that comes on due to an event in their life. Either way, learning how to calm them down will help them feel better.

Provide a Safe Spot

Few things feel better to a dog when they’re overwhelmed with excitement or anxiety than a dark, quiet spot. It helps remove distractions so your dog can focus on the task at hand. It also removes those scary or frightening stimuli to allow heart rates and blood pressures to drop. For dogs that are chronically anxious or hyperactive, try to keep that safe spot the same. Don’t switch it up each time they have to go there or it won’t feel comforting to them. Make it a kennel or a small room that they can access on their own if needed.

There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around. OLIVER SANDERO

Train Them to Settle and Focus

All dogs perform better when they have a job. Sometimes that job can be as simple as listening and focusing on you. You are also the center of your dog’s universe, so use that to your advantage when trying to calm them down. Dogs that are anxious and those that are energetic can be trained to calm down in the same way.

Firstly, when your dog gets worked up give them a verbal cue that works to both catch their attention and provides them with something to do. That cue can be “sit,” “down,” or even “relax.” You just want to make sure you can use it consistently.
Secondly, use the word until your dog performs the behavior that you want, such as lying down, sitting at your feet, or even just stopping what they are doing and looking at you. You may have to show them what to do the first few times until they get the hang of it.

LEARN MORE

May 18, 2021

Mohammad Ravandhydration

A Vet Reviews: Smalls Cat Food

Whether your pup is a mile-a-minute, hyperactive Energizer battery on four legs or they just can’t handle those car rides or unexpected visitors, getting them to calm down is an invaluable skill. Keeping or getting your dog calm has many benefits, such as preventing possible accidents, fear-related behaviors, and reducing blood pressure. When a dog is going full force, they risk the possibility of running into traffic, disobeying, or otherwise getting hurt. Hyperactivity isn’t only a young dog issue; it can continue well into adult years. Some dog breeds are more energetic than others, so keep that in mind if you’re faced with a choice.

Dogs that are anxious or nervous run the risk of fear-biting or other dog fights, or just going through that terrible nervous feeling that elevates stress and that none of us appreciate. Anxiety can be something that a dog is born with or something that comes on due to an event in their life. Either way, learning how to calm them down will help them feel better.

Provide a Safe Spot

Few things feel better to a dog when they’re overwhelmed with excitement or anxiety than a dark, quiet spot. It helps remove distractions so your dog can focus on the task at hand. It also removes those scary or frightening stimuli to allow heart rates and blood pressures to drop. For dogs that are chronically anxious or hyperactive, try to keep that safe spot the same. Don’t switch it up each time they have to go there or it won’t feel comforting to them. Make it a kennel or a small room that they can access on their own if needed.

There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around. OLIVER SANDERO

Train Them to Settle and Focus

All dogs perform better when they have a job. Sometimes that job can be as simple as listening and focusing on you. You are also the center of your dog’s universe, so use that to your advantage when trying to calm them down. Dogs that are anxious and those that are energetic can be trained to calm down in the same way.

Firstly, when your dog gets worked up give them a verbal cue that works to both catch their attention and provides them with something to do. That cue can be “sit,” “down,” or even “relax.” You just want to make sure you can use it consistently.
Secondly, use the word until your dog performs the behavior that you want, such as lying down, sitting at your feet, or even just stopping what they are doing and looking at you. You may have to show them what to do the first few times until they get the hang of it.

LEARN MORE

May 18, 2021

Mohammad RavandCARE

The Best High Fiber Dog Food

Whether your pup is a mile-a-minute, hyperactive Energizer battery on four legs or they just can’t handle those car rides or unexpected visitors, getting them to calm down is an invaluable skill. Keeping or getting your dog calm has many benefits, such as preventing possible accidents, fear-related behaviors, and reducing blood pressure. When a dog is going full force, they risk the possibility of running into traffic, disobeying, or otherwise getting hurt. Hyperactivity isn’t only a young dog issue; it can continue well into adult years. Some dog breeds are more energetic than others, so keep that in mind if you’re faced with a choice.

Dogs that are anxious or nervous run the risk of fear-biting or other dog fights, or just going through that terrible nervous feeling that elevates stress and that none of us appreciate. Anxiety can be something that a dog is born with or something that comes on due to an event in their life. Either way, learning how to calm them down will help them feel better.

Provide a Safe Spot

Few things feel better to a dog when they’re overwhelmed with excitement or anxiety than a dark, quiet spot. It helps remove distractions so your dog can focus on the task at hand. It also removes those scary or frightening stimuli to allow heart rates and blood pressures to drop. For dogs that are chronically anxious or hyperactive, try to keep that safe spot the same. Don’t switch it up each time they have to go there or it won’t feel comforting to them. Make it a kennel or a small room that they can access on their own if needed.

There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around. OLIVER SANDERO

Train Them to Settle and Focus

All dogs perform better when they have a job. Sometimes that job can be as simple as listening and focusing on you. You are also the center of your dog’s universe, so use that to your advantage when trying to calm them down. Dogs that are anxious and those that are energetic can be trained to calm down in the same way.

Firstly, when your dog gets worked up give them a verbal cue that works to both catch their attention and provides them with something to do. That cue can be “sit,” “down,” or even “relax.” You just want to make sure you can use it consistently.
Secondly, use the word until your dog performs the behavior that you want, such as lying down, sitting at your feet, or even just stopping what they are doing and looking at you. You may have to show them what to do the first few times until they get the hang of it.

LEARN MORE

April 13, 2021

Mohammad RavandCARE

The Best Flea Medicine for Dogs

Whether your pup is a mile-a-minute, hyperactive Energizer battery on four legs or they just can’t handle those car rides or unexpected visitors, getting them to calm down is an invaluable skill. Keeping or getting your dog calm has many benefits, such as preventing possible accidents, fear-related behaviors, and reducing blood pressure. When a dog is going full force, they risk the possibility of running into traffic, disobeying, or otherwise getting hurt. Hyperactivity isn’t only a young dog issue; it can continue well into adult years. Some dog breeds are more energetic than others, so keep that in mind if you’re faced with a choice.

Dogs that are anxious or nervous run the risk of fear-biting or other dog fights, or just going through that terrible nervous feeling that elevates stress and that none of us appreciate. Anxiety can be something that a dog is born with or something that comes on due to an event in their life. Either way, learning how to calm them down will help them feel better.

Provide a Safe Spot

Few things feel better to a dog when they’re overwhelmed with excitement or anxiety than a dark, quiet spot. It helps remove distractions so your dog can focus on the task at hand. It also removes those scary or frightening stimuli to allow heart rates and blood pressures to drop. For dogs that are chronically anxious or hyperactive, try to keep that safe spot the same. Don’t switch it up each time they have to go there or it won’t feel comforting to them. Make it a kennel or a small room that they can access on their own if needed.

There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around. OLIVER SANDERO

Train Them to Settle and Focus

All dogs perform better when they have a job. Sometimes that job can be as simple as listening and focusing on you. You are also the center of your dog’s universe, so use that to your advantage when trying to calm them down. Dogs that are anxious and those that are energetic can be trained to calm down in the same way.

Firstly, when your dog gets worked up give them a verbal cue that works to both catch their attention and provides them with something to do. That cue can be “sit,” “down,” or even “relax.” You just want to make sure you can use it consistently.
Secondly, use the word until your dog performs the behavior that you want, such as lying down, sitting at your feet, or even just stopping what they are doing and looking at you. You may have to show them what to do the first few times until they get the hang of it.

LEARN MORE