What to do with rabies in a cat? - briefly
If you suspect your cat has been exposed to rabies, immediately contact your veterinarian for guidance and prompt vaccination if necessary. Rabies is fatal once symptoms appear, so timely action is crucial.
What to do with rabies in a cat? - in detail
Rabies in cats is a serious and often fatal viral disease that attacks the central nervous system. It is typically transmitted through the bite of an infected animal, most commonly a wild mammal such as a raccoon, skunk, fox, or bat. Here's what you need to know about rabies in cats and how to handle it:
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Understanding Rabies: Rabies is caused by a virus that affects the brain and spinal cord of warm-blooded animals, including humans. The virus is present in the saliva of an infected animal and is usually transmitted through a bite. Cats are particularly susceptible due to their curious nature and tendency to hunt or interact with wildlife.
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Symptoms: The early symptoms of rabies in cats can be subtle and may include changes in behavior such as increased aggression, lethargy, fever, seizures, and difficulty swallowing. As the disease progresses, the cat may exhibit signs of paralysis, usually starting in the hindquarters. Eventually, the cat will succumb to the disease.
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Prevention: The best way to protect your cat from rabies is through vaccination. Kittens should receive their first vaccine at 8 weeks old, followed by a booster one year later and then every three years. It's also important to keep your cat indoors and avoid contact with wild animals. If you suspect that your cat has been exposed to rabies, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Handling Suspected Exposure: If your cat is bitten by a potentially rabid animal or if you suspect exposure, do not attempt to handle the animal yourself. Contact your local animal control agency or a wildlife rehabilitator who can safely capture and test the animal for rabies. Inform your veterinarian about the incident so they can monitor your cat's health closely.
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Quarantine: If your cat has been exposed to rabies but is up-to-date on vaccinations, your veterinarian may recommend a quarantine period of 45 days to ensure that no symptoms develop. During this time, keep your cat indoors and away from other animals. If your cat is not current on vaccinations, the quarantine period may be longer, typically up to six months.
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Treatment: There is no cure for rabies once clinical signs appear. Euthanasia is often recommended to prevent further suffering and to allow for brain tissue testing to confirm the diagnosis. This not only helps in diagnosing the disease but also prevents the spread of the virus to other animals or humans.
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Human Exposure: If you suspect that your cat has rabies and you have been bitten or scratched by it, seek medical attention immediately. Rabies is almost always fatal in humans if left untreated, but prompt medical intervention can prevent the disease from developing.
In summary, preventing rabies in cats involves regular vaccinations and minimizing exposure to wild animals. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to rabies, contact your veterinarian immediately for guidance and follow their instructions carefully.