Rabies in Cats

Rabies is a virus that attacks the nervous system of mammals. The virus is found in saliva and is normally transmitted to other people or animals through a bite. Each year there are thousands of cases of rabies in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and although wildlife animals account for a significant portion of these cases, domestic animals are also infected with the virus. In the United States, cats are the No.1 domestic carrier of rabies.

  1. Reasons for Infection

    • The American Veterinary Medical Association believes that one reason cats are more likely to be infected than other domestic animals is because they roam around unsupervised and are less likely to be properly vaccinated, which increases their chances of contracting rabies. Rabies can spread from cats to humans; fortunately, though, rabies infections in humans are rare in the United States.

    Rabies Carriers

    • According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, there are several animals that can pass rabies on to a cat. These animals include skunks, gray and red foxes, raccoons and bats. Cats who are attacked by a rabid animal usually obtain the virus through saliva. Cats can also get rabies from the urine of the infected animal.

    Rabies Diagnosis

    • Unfortunately, there is no reliable method of diagnosing rabies in a cat. Although there are several tests, including skin biopsies and corneal smears, these test can produce false-negative results. The best way to tell if a cat has rabies is through the tell-tale symptoms he will exhibit.

    Rabies Phases and Symptoms

    • Cats that have rabies go through several phases. The first phase is called the prodromal phase. During this stage, a personality change in the cat takes place. Friendly cats become shy and irritable, and aggressive cats become affectionate and docile. The second stage is the furious phase. During this phase the cat will become restless, irritable and more vicious. The final stage is the paralytic stage, in which the nerves of the animal become infected. This phase includes respiratory failure and death.

    Prevention

    • The best way to prevent your cat from getting rabies is to have it vaccinated. Failing that, you should avoid your cat's exposure to other animals. The best way to do that is to keep the cat inside at all times or to only allow him outside on a leash, harness or in a fenced-in area. Even then, you should supervise your cat.