What are the symptoms of a rabid cat bite? - briefly
Symptoms of a rabid cat bite include fever, agitation, confusion, and difficulty swallowing, often progressing to paralysis and death if untreated.
What are the symptoms of a rabid cat bite? - in detail
Rabies is a severe viral infection that affects the central nervous system and is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, such as a cat. The symptoms of a rabid cat bite can vary depending on the stage of the disease, but they generally progress in a predictable manner. Initially, the wound site may show signs of irritation, redness, swelling, or pain. As the virus begins to spread, the individual may experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, fatigue, and muscle weakness. These early symptoms can be nonspecific and easily mistaken for other illnesses.
As the infection progresses, more severe neurological symptoms emerge. The person may develop anxiety, confusion, agitation, and hallucinations. Excessive salivation, difficulty swallowing, and hydrophobia (fear of water) are hallmark signs of rabies, caused by the virus affecting the brain and nervous system. Muscle spasms, particularly in the throat, can make swallowing painful and lead to foaming at the mouth. Paralysis may also occur, starting at the site of the bite and spreading throughout the body.
In the final stages, the disease causes severe brain inflammation, leading to coma and ultimately death if untreated. Rabies is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear, making immediate medical attention critical after a suspected rabid animal bite. Post-exposure prophylaxis, including rabies vaccination and immunoglobulin administration, is essential to prevent the virus from taking hold. Early recognition of symptoms and prompt treatment are vital to survival.