Rabies is a disease of viral origin that, although it is commonly associated with dogs, can be contracted by any mammalincluding us humans and also cats.
It is extremely dangerous, so it is crucial to identify the first symptoms to avoid new infections. If you are not sure what they are, continue reading because here we will explain How to know if your cat has rabies and how to prevent it.
What is rabies?
Rage is a viral infectious disease caused by the virus of gender lyssaviruses, which belongs to the family RhabdoviridaeThis disease directly affects the central nervous system, causing inflammation in the brain, which can trigger severe neurological symptoms.
The virus is transmitted mainly through the saliva from an infected animal, usually through bites. It is also possible to spread the virus if saliva comes into contact with open wounds or mucous membranes, such as the mouth, eyes or nose.
Once inside the body, the virus travels through the peripheral nerves to the brain, which can take from days to months, depending on factors such as the amount of virus transmitted, the gravity y the location of the wound.
Symptoms of rabies in cats
As the disease progresses, the symptoms of rabies in cats appear in three distinct phases:
- Prodromal phase: It lasts between 2 and 5 days. In this initial stage, cats present behavioral changes, such as extreme nervousness and fear. They may also excessively lick the wound where it became infected.
- Furious phase: It is the most dangerous and characteristic. The animal can become aggressive, present convulsions, muscle spasms and excess salivationDuring this phase, it usually rejects light and noise, looking for isolated places.
- Paralytic phase: The virus causes progressive paralysis, starting in the extremities and spreading to the rest of the body. This can cause respiratory failure and death within a few days.
It is important to note that not all cats develop all three phases. Some may present a form of silent rage, which goes directly from the prodromal phase to the paralytic phase.
Other additional symptoms include fever, vomiting, weight loss, lack of appetite, incoordination or unusually affectionate behavior before becoming aggressive.
Rabies prevention
Unfortunately, anger there is no cure. Once symptoms appear, it is fatal in all cases, both in animals and humans. For this reason, the prevention is the best strategy to combat it.
Rabies vaccination
La vaccination is the most effective method of preventing rabies. Cats should receive their first rabies vaccination when they are 12 to 16 weeks old. Thereafter, depending on local regulations and veterinarian recommendations, annual or triennial boosters may be necessary.
In some autonomous communities in Spain, such as Andalusia, Murcia or Ceuta, rabies vaccination is mandatory, while in others, such as Catalonia or Asturias, it is optional. However, It is recommended to vaccinate all cats, especially if they have access to the outdoors or may come into contact with wild animals.
Tips to minimize risks:
- Prevent access to the outside at night: At night, cats are more likely to encounter infected animals, such as bats or foxes.
- Regular veterinary check-up: Keep all your pet's vaccinations and checkups up to date.
- Avoid contact with stray animals: If your cat is bitten or scratched by an unknown animal, consult a veterinarian immediately.
What to do if a rabid cat bites a person
If you are bitten by an infected animal, act immediately:
- Wash the wound with plenty of soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
- See a doctor as soon as possible to receive post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) treatment.
- Be sure to report the bite to your local health authorities.
Thanks to advances in medicine, post-exposure prophylaxis can prevent the development of the disease if administered quickly.
Protecting your cat and your family from rabies is a responsibility that can prevent tragedies.By vaccinating properly and preventing risky situations, you can keep your feline healthy and happy, as well as protect yourself and your loved ones from this terrible disease.