What is Rabies?
Rabies is a deadly viral disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS) of mammals, including cats, dogs, and even humans. It is caused by the Rabies virus (RABV), a member of the Lyssavirus genus. Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. That’s why prevention through vaccination is the most effective way to protect cats.
How Do Cats Get Rabies?
Cats usually contract rabies through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, because the virus spreads through saliva.
Common carriers of rabies include:
Dogs (in areas where rabies is common)
Bats
Raccoons
Skunks
Foxes
The virus enters the body, travels through the nerves, and eventually attacks the brain and spinal cord, leading to severe neurological damage.
Signs and Symptoms of Rabies in Cats
Rabies develops in three stages.
1. Prodromal Stage (1–3 days)
Fever
Behavioral changes (restlessness, nervousness, aggression, or unusual friendliness)
Excessive meowing or vocalization
Licking or chewing at the site of the bite
2. Excitative/Furious Stage (3–7 days)
Extreme aggression and irritability
Attacking objects, animals, or people
Hypersensitivity to light, sound, or touch
Dilated pupils
Constant pacing or agitation
3. Paralytic/Dumb Stage (Final stage)
Dropped jaw, difficulty swallowing
Excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth
Weakness and paralysis
Seizures
Coma and eventual death
Diagnosis of Rabies in Cats
Diagnosing rabies in a living cat is very difficult because symptoms mimic other neurological diseases.
Veterinarians rely on history of exposure (bite from a wild animal) and clinical signs.
A definitive diagnosis can only be made after death, through a brain tissue examination.
Treatment of Rabies in Cats
Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies once symptoms appear. The disease is always fatal at this stage.
However, there are preventive measures:
1. Vaccination
Rabies vaccination is highly effective and mandatory in many countries.
Kittens should receive their first rabies vaccine at around 12–16 weeks of age, followed by booster shots as recommended by the veterinarian.
2. Post-Exposure Measures
If your cat is bitten by a potentially rabid animal:
Take your cat to the vet immediately.
Unvaccinated cats are usually quarantined or, in severe cases, euthanized due to the risk of spreading rabies.
Vaccinated cats may receive a booster dose and observation for 45 days.
3. Protecting Humans
Rabies is a zoonotic disease (can spread from animals to humans).
If you suspect rabies exposure, seek medical attention immediately. Human rabies can be prevented if treated early with post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).
Prevention of Rabies in Cats
Regular rabies vaccination as per vet schedule.
Keep your cat indoors to avoid fights with stray animals.
Supervise outdoor activities if your cat goes outside.
Avoid contact with wild or stray animals.
Report suspicious or aggressive stray animals to local authorities.
Conclusion
Rabies in cats is a serious, fatal disease with no cure once symptoms appear. Early vaccination and prevention are the only effective defenses against this deadly virus. By protecting your cat, you also protect yourself and your family from the risk of rabies infection.
