Kittens & Rabies

Rabies is a virus often found in the saliva of animals infected with the virus. Rabies can be transmitted when the infected animals bite people. Once bitten by a rabies-infected animal, you must seek treatment immediately.

  1. Rabies in Kittens

    • Kittens can't get the rabies vaccine until they are at least four months old. Thus, it is important to be on the lookout for symptoms. There are several phases kitten carriers go through if they have rabies.

    Rabies Transmission

    • Rabies is transmitted when the saliva of the infected animal is absorbed. This usually happens when the animal bites the individual and the saliva touches the punctured skin. The risk of rabies infection comes in the virus' affinity for attacking the nervous system. The virus initially enters the site of the wound and then almost immediately travels to the brain before targeting muscle pathways and other organs. The extent of the rabies infection varies, but without proper treatment it can eventually lead to death.

    Prodromal Phase

    • The first stage is the prodromal phase. Often, this phase lasts around one to two days in kittens. If the kitten had been affectionate previously, it can become bad-tempered or extremely shy. As for aggressive ones, they can suddenly become a more timid pet. Basically, an extreme change in behavior is observed in the prodomal phase.

    Furious Phase

    • The furious phase is a stage often observed in kittens. This phase may last from a minimum of 24 hours up to seven days. Aside from being irritable, the kitten may become more sensitive and responsive to both visual and auditory stimuli. The animal becomes more restless. Kittens with rabies at this stage become more vicious and are prone to initiate attacks when they feel threatened or irritated.

    Paralytic (Dumb) Phase

    • The paralytic phase may come after the prodromal or furious stage. This phase usually takes place within two to four days after the initial occurrence of symptoms. Often, the nerves responsible for controlling throat and head functions are targeted first. The animal will find it difficult to swallow, which eventually leads to extreme salivation. Soon facial muscles and the diaphragm will be unable to move. The paralysis will spread until treated properly.