Rabies in cats: what to know

A cat with rabies may become unusually aggressive, fearful, restless, quiet, or friendly. It may hide, vocalise differently, stumble, become weak, or seem unable to swallow. Drooling can happen because swallowing is difficult. These signs can have other causes, and no owner can confirm rabies by observation alone. A cat that has bitten or scratched someone should not be handled or examined at home.

Separate children and other animals without approaching the cat. Call a veterinarian, animal-control service, or public-health authority for instructions about safe containment and observation. If the cat bites or scratches you, wash the area immediately with soap and running water, avoid trying to catch the cat, and obtain urgent medical assessment. Note the cat's vaccination information only if it is readily available and safe to do so.

Seek urgent care after any cat bite or scratch that may have saliva on it, or when saliva reaches an open wound, eye, nose, or mouth. This applies to indoor cats when vaccination status or recent animal contact is uncertain. Emergency symptoms in a person include confusion, trouble swallowing, spasms, or severe agitation; do not wait for symptoms before asking about preventive treatment.

Ask whether the scratch or bite counts as an exposure, whether you need post-exposure treatment, and how the wound and follow-up should be managed.