Can a cat scratch give you rabies?

Rabies is a viral disease that is usually transmitted through the bite of an infected animal. The rabies virus can be found in the saliva of infected animals, and it can enter the body through a bite or scratch.

Cats can get rabies if they are bitten by an infected animal, and they can then transmit the virus to humans. However, cat scratches are not a common way to transmit rabies. The rabies virus is not as likely to survive on a cat's claws as it is on their teeth, and scratches are less likely to draw blood than bites.

There have been a few cases of rabies being transmitted through cat scratches, but these cases are very rare. If you are scratched by a cat, it is important to wash the wound with soap and water and to contact your doctor. If the cat shows any signs of rabies, such as aggression, foaming at the mouth, or paralysis, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

The best way to prevent rabies is to avoid contact with wild animals and to make sure your pets are vaccinated against rabies.