How do cats die from rabies? - briefly
Rabies in cats is typically contracted through the bite of an infected animal. The virus attacks the central nervous system, leading to paralysis and eventually death, usually within 10 days after symptoms appear.
How do cats die from rabies? - in detail
Rabies is a fatal viral disease that affects the nervous system of mammals, including cats. The virus is transmitted through the bite or scratch of an infected animal, with saliva being the primary medium of transmission. Once a cat is exposed to the rabies virus, the progression of the disease can be categorized into three distinct stages: prodromal, furious, and paralytic.
In the initial prodromal stage, which lasts for 2-3 days, the cat may exhibit subtle behavioral changes such as increased irritability, lethargy, or loss of appetite. These symptoms are often mistaken for other common illnesses, making early diagnosis challenging. During this phase, the virus replicates in the muscle tissue near the site of infection and then spreads to the nervous system via peripheral nerves.
As the disease progresses into the furious stage, which can last from 1 to 7 days, the cat's behavior becomes more erratic and aggressive. Symptoms may include excessive salivation, aggression towards other animals or humans, restlessness, and a heightened sensitivity to light and sound. This stage is characterized by the virus invading the brain and spinal cord, leading to severe neurological dysfunction. The cat's body temperature may also rise significantly during this phase.
In the final paralytic stage, which typically lasts for 2-4 days, the cat experiences muscle weakness and paralysis, often starting in the hind limbs and progressing towards the front limbs and head. This stage is marked by the virus spreading throughout the central nervous system, causing widespread damage to nerve cells. The cat may become unable to swallow, leading to choking or aspiration pneumonia. Eventually, the cat succumbs to respiratory failure and cardiac arrest, resulting in death.
Throughout all stages of rabies, the virus continues to replicate in the brain and other tissues, making it highly contagious. The mortality rate for cats infected with rabies is nearly 100%, underscoring the importance of prompt vaccination and treatment upon suspected exposure. If a cat is suspected of having been bitten by a rabid animal, immediate veterinary care is crucial to prevent the onset of symptoms and save the cat's life.