Can you get rabies from a stray cat bite?

Rabies is usually transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal and is most commonly spread through bites. It is still possible to get rabies from a cat scratch or a scratch from any infected animal, but it is less common.

Does Minor cat bite need rabies vaccine?

Yes. Post-exposure rabies prophylaxis (PEP) is necessary if you are bitten by a dog, cat or other animal that is rabid or is suspected to be infected with the rabies virus.

How do I know if a stray cat has rabies?

What Are the Symptoms of Rabies?

1. Changes in behavior. Cats who are usually calm may become excitable or agitated.
2. Aggression. Cats can become excitable, aggressive, and vicious towards humans or other animals.
3. Drooling. Rabies can affect muscles in a cat’s mouth so they can’t swallow.
4. Loss of muscle control.

What to do if you get bitten by a stray cat?

If a cat or dog bites you, you should:

1. Wash the wound gently with soap and water.
2. Apply pressure with a clean towel to the injured area to stop any bleeding.
3. Apply a sterile bandage to the wound.
4. Keep the wound elevated above your heart to prevent swelling and infection.

Do cats carry rabies?

Today, rabies in cats is rare, but cats have overtaken dogs as the most common domestic species to be infected. More than 90 percent of reports of rabies in animals to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are wildlife (bats, raccoons, skunks, foxes, etc.).

How do you know if a cat has rabies?

In this stage, a rabid cat may become nervous and vicious. They may also excessively cry out and experience seizures and a loss of appetite. At this point, the virus is attacking the nervous system and prevents them from swallowing, leading to the classic sign of excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth.

Can stray kittens have rabies?

Rabies is always a concern, and widespread exposure of people to rabies has occurred from infected litters of kittens. Any stray (or recently rescued) animal that starts acting strangely should be considered a rabies-suspect and be taken to a vet immediately.