Rabies is more common in wild animals but domestic cats can also be affected by this disease. Generally if they come into contact with another affected cat they might also be infected.
As a cat owner you should know the signs of rabies and what steps to take if you suspect your cat might be affected.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that spreads through saliva and usually from the bite of infected cats or animals.
If the virus enters the body then it travels to the brain and affects the central nervous system of cats. The cat will start to exhibit behavioral changes also with aggression and neurological symptoms.
Rabies is almost a fatal once symptoms appear which is why prevention and early intervention are crucial.
How Do Cats Contract Rabies?
If a cat is bitten by an infected animal like a wild animal, bat, or fox it might contract rabies.
Outdoor cats are more likely to be affected by rabies because they have more exposure to these wild animals.
If an outdoor animal enters your house indoor cats might also be at risk of infection.
Key Signs of Rabies in Cats
I think identifying rabies in your cat can be a bit challenging. Some rabies symptoms are also similar to other common disease symptoms.
However rabies generally progresses through three distinct stages with specific signs at each stage. Here is what to look out for:
1. The Prodromal Stage (First Stage)
When it is in early stage of rabies the symptoms are subtle and it is not clear whether it is rabies or a general illness. You may notice the following changes:
Behavioral Changes:
When a cat feels in danger or is feeling ill they may try to hide. So if you notice your cat hiding abnormally you should be concerned about their health.
Fever:
You may notice a slight increase in temperature and sneezing.
Sensitivity to Light and Sound:
As I already mentioned when a cat is afraid or feeling unwell they try to hide. Similarly you may also notice them unusually afraid of loud noises and bright lights.
This behavior suggests that something is not right with them.
2. The Furious Stage (Second Stage)
This is the most recognizable stage of rabies. In this stage more aggressive symptoms start to appear in your cat. Some of the symptoms include:
Aggression:
Some unusual aggression may be seen in cats. This might include growling, biting or swiping at people or other animals without provocation.
Restlessness and Wandering:
Sometimes a cat may appear very unsettled. They may pace and wander aimlessly around your house.
Biting and Chewing:
Some infected cats may bite excessively. They might bite and chew objects unusually and even bite their paws or tails.
Note: A healthy cat generally bites and licks themselves to clean their body. This is normal behavior.
Vocalization:
At this stage cats also make strange and loud voices. They are also yowling more than usual.
It is usually seen that the furious stage generally lasts around one to seven days.
3. The Paralytic Stage (Third Stage)
This is the final stage and the virus starts to affect the cat’s muscles and nerves. Cats may also get paralyzed and face severe health issues. Symptoms include:
Weakness and Paralysis:
As I mentioned in this stage cat muscles start to become weak. Often it starts with the face or throat and progresses through the body day by day.
Drooling and Difficulty Swallowing:
For the paralysis of the cat’s body their throat and jaw also become paralyzed. This makes swallowing difficult which can lead to excessive drooling.
Respiratory Failure:
The paralysis will impact the respiratory system leading to breathing difficulties.
This stage usually lasts for few days and unfortunately death typically follows.
How Rabies Is Diagnosed
After knowing the symptoms if you think your cat has rabies then immediately go to a vet. Finding out if it is rabies is challenging but after monitoring a vet can run tests to check for other diseases.
Many common diseases have symptoms similar to rabies. After testing the vet can confirm whether your cat has rabies or not.
Steps to Take If You Suspect Rabies
1. Isolate Your Cat:
If you confirm that your cat has rabies then keep your cat away from other animals and people and You should also be cautious and avoid close contact with the cat as rabies can spread through saliva and bites.
2. Discuss with a Veterinarian:
Rabies is a medical emergency so discuss it with your vet. A vet can advise based on the cat’s symptoms and risks and help you take the next steps.
3. Notify Local Animal Control if Needed:
In some regions there is local animal control. You can inform them if you suspect rabies in your cat. They can assist you and provide guidance which can be helpful.
What to do to prevent rabies:
You should always be conscious of your cat and take these steps:
1.Vaccinate Regularly:
To prevent rabies vaccination is the most effective way. Always ensure your cat gets the rabies vaccine. If your cat is not vaccinated then first confirm their vaccination.
2.Limit Outdoor Access:
Another solution is to keep your cat indoors. When your cat goes outside the risk of rabies infection increases. So keep your cat indoors if possible.
3.Supervise Outdoor Cats:
If your cat goes outside then you should monitor them and ensure that infected cats do not get close to your cat.
If possible you can create a secure outdoor cat enclosure.
Can Rabies Be Treated?
Rabies is a deadly disease for cats. There is no proper treatment or cure once symptoms have appeared. Most animals with rabies do not survive.
But do not be upset; if you vaccinate your cat regularly and take care of them you can definitely keep your cat safe from rabies.
Finally I want to say do not be fearful or upset about cat rabies. You should always take care of your cat whether or not there is any risk.
If you follow the guidelines to stay safe from rabies you may never face this issue. Unfortunately if you confirm that your cat is affected by rabies then take the proper steps mentioned above.
