Rabies is one of the oldest known diseases, and one of the most serious. Once signs appear, it is almost always fatal in animals and people. The good news is that rabies is preventable through vaccination, and widespread pet vaccination has dramatically reduced rabies in dogs in the United States. Understanding how rabies works helps explain why vaccines remain so important.
What rabies is and how it spreads
Rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system. It can infect any mammal, including dogs, cats, livestock and people. The virus is most often spread through the bite of an infected animal, since it is present in saliva. Less commonly, it can spread if infected saliva gets into an open wound or the eyes, nose or mouth.
In the United States, most rabies cases in animals today occur in wildlife, such as bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes. Domestic animals can be exposed through encounters with infected wildlife. Cats are of particular interest because many roam outdoors and may tangle with wildlife. Bats can occasionally get inside homes, so even indoor pets can have rare exposures.
Signs of rabies in animals
After exposure, the virus can take weeks to months to cause signs. Signs vary but may include:
- Sudden changes in behavior, such as unusual aggression or unusual friendliness.
- Restlessness or agitation.
- Excessive drooling or difficulty swallowing.
- Weakness, wobbliness or paralysis.
- Seizures.
Because these signs overlap with other conditions, rabies cannot be diagnosed by appearance alone.
Why vaccination matters
Rabies vaccines for dogs and cats are effective and widely available. Vaccinating pets protects them, and it also helps protect people, since pets act as a buffer between wildlife and households. Many states and local governments require rabies vaccination for dogs, and many also require it for cats and ferrets. Requirements, schedules and booster intervals vary by state, county and city.
Your veterinarian will recommend a schedule based on your pet’s age, the vaccine used and local law. Keep your pet’s rabies certificate in a safe place. It may be needed for licensing, boarding, grooming and travel.
What to do after a possible exposure
If your pet is bitten or scratched by a wild animal, or by any animal whose vaccination status is unknown, call your veterinarian promptly, even if the wound seems minor. Wear gloves if you need to handle your pet, since saliva may be on the fur. Do not try to catch or handle the wild animal yourself. Contact local animal control for help.
If a person is bitten by an animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and contact a doctor right away. Local health departments provide guidance on rabies exposures in people.
Learn more
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers clear, reliable information about rabies at cdc.gov. For questions about your own pet’s vaccines and local requirements, talk to your veterinarian.
