Feline Rabies is a serious and potentially fatal viral infection that affects cats. It’s caused by the rabies virus, which can spread through contact with infected saliva, most commonly through bites from an infected animal. Feline Rabies can also be contracted when a cat ingests the carcass of an animal that has died from the virus. The virus affects the brain and central nervous system, causing various behavioral changes such as aggression, restlessness, and confusion.
Once a cat is infected with the virus, there is no effective treatment. Vaccination is the only way to prevent infection in cats. All cats should be vaccinated against rabies at least once per year. It’s important that all cats are kept indoors and away from wild animals or stray cats.
Symptoms of Feline Rabies
Symptoms of Feline Rabies can vary depending on the stage of the infection. Early signs can include:
- Fever
- Appetite loss
- Fatigue
- Excessive salivation
- Paralysis
As the virus progresses, cats will become aggressive and display abnormal behavior such as restlessness, confusion, disorientation and seizures. Later stages of the disease can result in coma or death. It’s important to get veterinary attention immediately if you notice any of the above symptoms in your cat.
Feline Rabies is a serious disease that can be fatal. It’s important to vaccinate your cat against this virus and to always supervise interactions with other animals. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure that your cat remains safe and healthy.
Diagnosing Feline Rabies
Diagnosing Feline Rabies can be difficult, as many of the symptoms can be caused by other diseases. In some cases, a blood test can be used to check for the presence of the virus. If a cat is suspected of having rabies, tissue samples can be taken from their brain and tested in a laboratory. Unfortunately the only way to get the tissue samples is from a cat that has been put down.
Stage of Feline Rabies
The stages of Feline Rabies can be split into three categories: prodromal, furious, and paralytic.
Stage 1
During the prodromal stage, cats will have fever, appetite loss, fatigue, and excessive salivation. They can also become agitated and display signs of aggression or restlessness.
Stage 2
In the furious stage, cats will become more aggressive and disoriented, with seizures common.
Stage 3
The paralytic stage is the last stage of the disease, where the cat will become paralyzed and eventually die.
Treating Feline Rabies
Treating Feline Rabies is limited. There is no effective treatment once a cat is infected. Vaccination prior to infection is the only way to prevent the disease. If a cat has not been vaccinated and contracts the virus, supportive care can be given to help maintain comfort and reduce symptoms such as fever and pain. However, due to the severity of the virus, cats don’t survive once infected.
Preventing Feline Rabies
The best way to prevent Feline Rabies is through vaccination. All cats should be vaccinated at least once a year, and it’s important to keep cats indoors and away from wild animals or stray cats. If you are exposed to a potentially rabid animal, get medical attention immediately.