How to Quarantine a Cat to Check for Rabies

All mammals are vulnerable to the highly contagious and potentially fatal rabies infection. Cats most often contract rabies through a bite from an infected animal, either wild or tame. If you suspect that your cat has come into contact with an infected animal, local and state laws likely require that your cat must be quarantined from other animals or people for at least 10 days. Safely quarantining your cat is integral for both your own health and the health of your possibly infected animal.

Things You'll Need

  • Leather or suede work gloves
  • Pet carrier
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on heavy-duty work gloves to protect yourself. Humans are also susceptible to rabies infections, and handling an infected cat poses a big risk. Long-sleeved shirts are also advisable.

    • 2

      Prepare your cat carrier prior to securing the animal. Open the door to the carrier so that you can quickly deposit the cat inside. If desired, place a towel on the bottom of the cage to provide a soft surface for your cat.

    • 3

      Pick up the cat and place it in the carrier. When transferring the cat, it may be necessary to cradle its body in one arm and gently grip the scruff of its neck with your free hand to ensure that it cannot turn its head to bite you. Secure the carrier door.

    • 4

      Call your veterinarian. Inquire about the date of your cat's rabies boosters to determine the risk of infection. Your veterinarian will also advise you as the to the local laws governing the length of the quarantine.

    • 5

      Transport the cat to an animal facility. Your veterinarian may be able to hold the cat in quarantine or you may be asked to take the cat to a local animal shelter equipped to manage a long-term stay. If your cat is up-to-date on its rabies booster shot, the quarantine may be as short as 10 days or as long as 45 days depending on local laws. Vaccinated cats may also be quarantined at your home if local laws allow. If your cat's rabies booster is not up to date, the quarantine may be as long as six months.

    • 6

      Contact your local animal control officer to alert him of the possible infection. If the animal who bit your pet is still at large, animal control will attempt to humanely capture the animal.

    • 7

      Follow-up with your veterinarian regarding your cat's rabies status. The most accurate rabies test is a direct fluorescent antibody test (dFA), but it is only performed after the death of an animal suspected as a rabies carrier, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).Your veterinarian will observe your cat for symptoms, a process that usually lasts six months, though vaccinated animals may be released earlier depending on local and state laws. If your cat does not show signs of rabies after the quarantine, it will be vaccinated and released to you.