Do indoor cats get rabies?
Rabies is most commonly transmitted by a bite from an infected animal. Even a strictly indoor cat may find a way to sneak out of the house and be exposed to rabies by a wild animal in the neighborhood. A rabid bat could find its way inside, presenting an attractive hunting target for an indoor cat.
How do I know if my indoor cat has rabies?
The symptoms of rabies include:
- Changes in behavior. Cats who are usually calm may become excitable or agitated.
- Aggression. Cats can become excitable, aggressive, and vicious towards humans or other animals.
- Drooling. Rabies can affect muscles in a cat’s mouth so they can’t swallow.
- Loss of muscle control.
Is it possible for an indoor cat to get rabies?
It would be very unusual for a completely indoor cat who is up to date with their vaccines and is otherwise healthy to have rabies. Rabies is transmitted by the bite of an infected animal–so for an indoor animal to get rabies an infected animal would have to get into the house and bite the cat.
How old do cats have to be to get a rabies shot?
A: The simplest answer is that rabies vaccines are required by law for all cats and dogs over the age of six months in New York state – and many other states have similar requirements. But that’s probably not a very satisfying answer.
What to do if you think your cat has rabies?
If you think a wild animal or your cat has rabies, do not approach them. Protect yourself. Call your local animal control division to get recommendations. Most likely, animal control will come get the animal and advise you on the best next steps.
How long does it take for a cat to show signs of rabies?
How Long Will It Take for a Cat to Show Signs of Rabies? After exposure to rabies, a cat will not immediately show signs. In fact, the time it takes for symptoms to present usually varies from three to eight weeks; however, it can be as short as 10 days and as long as a year.
How old does a kitten have to be to get a rabies shot?
On average, a kitten can receive his first rabies shot as early as 8-12 weeks of age, although the standard is between 4 and 6 months, and will need a booster to insure immunity a year later. Since reputable cat shelters and animal rescues will vaccinate cats prior to adoption regardless of age,…
Can a cat get rabies from an outside cat?
However, any mammal can become infected if they are exposed. That is why it is essential that we keep our pets protected with consistent rabies vaccines. Both indoor and outdoor cats are at risk for contracting rabies. Here’s what you need to know about the rabies vaccine for cats, including the schedule, side effects and cost.
When to give rabies boosters to dogs and cats?
Discussions with veterinarians who follow published vaccination guidelines indicate that many practices recommend administering core vaccines at 2, 3, and 4 months of age in both dogs and cats. Revaccination (booster) with core vaccines, including rabies, is recommended for all dogs and cats 1 year following completion of initial (juvenile) series.
Can a cat be overdue for a rabies shot?
A bat that wandered into an enclosed patio at the home of Holly Herman tangled with Herman’s two indoor cats. Although the cats were behind on their rabies shots, recent research indicates that boosters in overdue dogs and cats are as protective as boosters in dogs and cats that are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations.