Can You Get Rabies from a Cat Bite?

What is Rabies?

Rabies, also known as hydrophobia, is a contagious disease caused by the rabies virus. It is primarily transmitted through the bite of infected animals, with dogs and cats being the main sources of infection.

The symptoms of rabies in cats are characterized by an initial stage that mimics a common cold, with symptoms such as low fever and loss of appetite. In the middle stage, cats may exhibit fear of wind and water, along with difficulty breathing. In the later stages, they may experience weakness in their limbs, incontinence, high fever, and vomiting.

Can you get rabies from a cat bite, and do you need to get vaccinated?

The decision depends on the specifics of the bite.

For minor bites without breaking the skin, simply washing the area with saltwater or soap and water is sufficient. No rabies vaccine is necessary.

In addition, cats that have been properly vaccinated against rabies have a very low chance of carrying the virus. In such cases, if bitten, a simple cleaning of the wound is enough, and no rabies vaccine is required.

If the bite is more severe, with a larger wound and bleeding, it is advisable to clean the wound with soap and water, followed by an alcohol disinfection. After squeezing out the serum from the bite area, seek medical attention. Regardless of whether the cat carries the rabies virus, its saliva still contains bacteria, and the wound needs to be treated promptly.

Generally, cats infected with rabies will die within two to three days after the onset of symptoms. If bitten during this period, it is crucial to receive the rabies vaccine, although the cat is not contagious before this time.

What if you are bitten by a cat and don't treat it promptly? Will you get rabies?

Observe the cat. If it remains alive for 10 days after the bite, it indicates that it was not in the infectious stage, and you can be reassured.