The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends that all cats receive their "core vaccines" - rabies, as well as feline panleukopenia, feline viral rhinotracheitis, and feline calicivirus infection. The latter three are combined in one vaccination commonly known as FVRCP.

Other "non-core vaccines" for cats include feline leukemia, and feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) may also be recommended on a case by case basis.

Most local rescue groups and animal shelters include the cost of the initial round of all of these vaccinations in your adoption fee, but policies vary, so be sure you ask.

And if you already have a pet, there are also several area shelters and clinics that provide low-cost vaccinations and are open to the public.

For more info: Find out what vaccinations your dog needs, or check out this list of organizations in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area offering low cost vaccinations.