
World Rabies Day, celebrated annually on September 28th, is an important reminder of the risks associated with this deadly disease and the steps we can take to prevent it. Rabies is a viral disease that can affect all mammals, including cats and dogs. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal, making prevention and early intervention critical.
Common Signs & Symptoms of Rabies in Dogs and Cats
Rabies can manifest in two forms: the furious form and the paralytic form. In both dogs and cats, signs may vary but generally follow a similar pattern:

Behavioral Changes:
Aggression or sudden irritability in previously docile animals.
Lethargy or confusion as the virus affects the brain.
Unusual hiding or seeking solitude, especially for social pets.
Unexplained Paralysis or Muscle Weakness:
Drooping face or difficulty swallowing.
Hind limb weakness or stumbling.
Hypersensitivity:
Excessive salivation or frothing at the mouth.
Overreaction to light, sound, or touch.
Hydrophobia:
Reluctance or fear of water is a classic symptom but often occurs late in the disease.
If you observe any of these signs in your pet, it’s crucial to seek immediate veterinary attention. Even if rabies isn’t the cause, these symptoms can signal other serious illnesses.
Prevention: The Key to Protecting Your Pets
The good news is that rabies is entirely preventable. Here are some important steps to keep your pet safe:
Vaccination:
The most effective way to protect your pets from rabies is through regular vaccinations. Ensure your cat or dog is up-to-date with their rabies shot and always follow your veterinarian’s advice on booster shots.
Control Exposure:
Keep your pets away from wild animals, as rabies is most commonly spread through bites from infected wildlife like raccoons, bats, foxes, and skunks.
For cats, keeping them indoors can greatly reduce their risk of exposure.
Supervise dogs during walks and playtime, especially in wooded or rural areas.
Spaying and Neutering:
Sterilizing pets can reduce their urge to roam and potentially encounter infected animals.
Report Stray Animals:
Alert animal control about strays in your area. Stray dogs and cats are more likely to be exposed to rabies.
Take Action: Book a Vaccination Appointment!
Vaccinating your pets against rabies is not only important for their safety but is also required by law in many areas. By ensuring your dog or cat is vaccinated, you're protecting them and contributing to the larger goal of rabies eradication.
If your pet’s vaccination is due or you’re unsure about their status, now is the perfect time to schedule a checkup. Our veterinary team can assess your pet’s overall health and ensure they’re protected against rabies and other preventable diseases.
Don’t wait for the symptoms to appear. Prevention is the only cure when it comes to rabies. Contact us to book your pet’s vaccination appointment and keep them safe from this deadly virus!
Comments