symptoms of rabies in cats

 Rabies in Cats: What You Need to Know

Rabies isn't just a concern for dog owners; it can affect any mammal, including cats. In the United States, rabies is more common in cats than in dogs. The virus can spread to humans and other animals, posing a serious threat if left untreated. Fortunately, rabies is preventable thanks to vaccinations, making it a rare occurrence in household pets.

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a viral infection that attacks the central nervous system of mammals. The virus is typically transmitted through a bite from an infected animal. It enters the body at the bite site and travels along the nerves to the brain. Once it reaches the brain, symptoms begin to appear, and the infected animal usually succumbs to the virus within a week.

How Can Cats Contract Rabies?

While rabies is rare in domestic animals in the U.S., cases do occur. State laws often require vaccinations to curb the spread of rabies in cats, dogs, and other animals. In 2018, the CDC reported just 241 cases of rabies in cats. When cats do contract rabies, it's typically from an infected wild animal such as a raccoon, skunk, bat, or fox. The more your cat interacts with wildlife, the higher the risk of infection.

Symptoms of Rabies in Cats

If you suspect your cat has been bitten by another animal, pay attention to any changes in its behavior. Contact your vet immediately to discuss possible rabies exposure. They might recommend a booster shot to prevent the virus from taking hold.

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Symptoms to watch for include:

- Behavioral Changes: Calm cats may become agitated, while social cats might isolate themselves.

- Aggression: Cats can become aggressive and lash out at humans or other animals.

- Drooling: Rabies can affect the muscles in the cat's mouth, leading to drooling or foaming at the mouth.

- Loss of Muscle Control: Advanced rabies can result in paralysis and coma.

Can Cats Transmit Rabies to Humans?

Yes, a cat with rabies can pass the virus to humans through bites, scratches, or direct contact with saliva on broken skin or mucous membranes. If you suspect exposure, seek medical attention immediately to receive a series of rabies vaccines to prevent the virus from progressing.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Rabies in Cats

Rabies in cats may not show immediate symptoms. After exposure, an incubation period lasting from several weeks to a year may occur, during which the cat's saliva isn't infectious.

Unfortunately, there is no test for rabies in living animals. If your vet suspects your cat has been exposed to rabies, they may suggest isolating the cat and watching for symptoms. Booster vaccines can help prevent infection after exposure.

Once symptoms appear, there is no cure for rabies in cats, and the disease progresses rapidly. Euthanization may be necessary to ease the cat's suffering and protect others.

The only way to confirm a rabies diagnosis is through testing a sample from the cat's brain after death.

Protecting Your Cat from Rabies

The best way to protect your cat from rabies is to keep up with regular rabies vaccinations. Talk to your vet to ensure your cat is up to date on their shots.