Signs and Symptoms of Rabies in Cats

Rabies is a serious and fatal viral disease that affects the central nervous system of mammals, including cats. While it’s rare for indoor cats to contract rabies, the disease still poses a very real threat especially in areas with large wildlife populations, or if your cat ever escapes outdoors. Understanding the signs and symptoms of rabies in cats can help you act quickly in an emergency situation. More importantly, knowing what to watch for reinforces the value of vaccination, which is not only essential for your cat’s protection but is also legally required in Illinois and many other states. If you’re wondering what rabies looks like in cats and how it progresses, this blog will guide you through each stage of the illness so you know when to contact your veterinarian.

 

 

What Is Rabies and How Does It Spread to Cats?

Rabies is a viral infection that spreads through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly through bites. Wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks, and foxes are typical carriers of the virus, and any cat that comes into contact with one of these animals is at risk. Once the virus enters the body, it travels through the nerves to the brain, where it causes inflammation and severe neurological symptoms.

Cats can also contract rabies through open wounds or mucous membranes that come into contact with infected saliva. Even a small scratch or minor skirmish with wildlife can be enough to transmit the disease. While transmission between cats and other pets or people is rare, it can happen, especially if a cat becomes aggressive or disoriented due to rabies.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Rabies in Cats

Rabies progresses through three distinct phases: the prodromal stage, the furious stage, and the paralytic stage. In the earliest phase, signs may be subtle and easy to miss if you aren’t actively watching for changes.

Behavioral Changes

One of the first signs of rabies in cats is a sudden change in behavior. A typically calm cat might become unusually restless, anxious, or irritable. Alternatively, a normally active and social cat might suddenly withdraw and hide. These shifts can appear minor at first but are often the beginning of more severe neurological changes.

Increased Vocalization and Sensitivity

During the prodromal stage, cats may vocalize more than usual. Meowing may become more persistent, distressed, or unusual in tone. Your cat might also become hypersensitive to touch, light, and sound, reacting aggressively or fearfully to normal stimuli.

Fever and Reduced Appetite

Some cats may develop a mild fever or exhibit a noticeable decrease in appetite. While these symptoms can occur with many illnesses, they are worth noting when paired with changes in temperament.

Furious Stage of Rabies in Cats

If the disease progresses, the cat may enter the “furious” phase. This stage is often the most dramatic and recognizable form of rabies and includes highly aggressive or unpredictable behaviors.

Aggression and Hyperactivity

A cat in this phase may become dangerously aggressive even toward familiar people or other pets. Attacks may occur without warning and be severe. The cat may bite or scratch repeatedly and show no signs of restraint or recognition.

Disorientation and Hallucinations

Disorientation is common during the furious stage. Cats may appear confused or struggle to navigate their surroundings. Some may show signs of visual or auditory hallucinations, such as attacking invisible objects or reacting to sounds that aren’t there.

Excessive Salivation and Dilated Pupils

As the virus attacks the nervous system, it often leads to difficulty swallowing, resulting in excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth. Pupils may remain dilated, and the eyes may appear wide and intense.

Paralytic Stage and End-Stage Symptoms of Rabies in Cats

The final phase of rabies is the paralytic or “dumb” stage, which typically results in death within a few days. By this point, the virus has caused widespread damage to the cat’s nervous system.

Muscle Weakness and Loss of Coordination

Cats may begin to stagger or lose control of their back legs. As paralysis sets in, they may be unable to walk or even hold their head up. This stage is marked by extreme lethargy, confusion, and a steep decline in physical function.

Difficulty Swallowing and Breathing

As paralysis spreads, the muscles that control swallowing and breathing can fail. Your cat may exhibit labored breathing, choke on food or water, or stop eating altogether.

Sudden Collapse and Death

Rabies progresses quickly once neurological symptoms begin. If left untreated and unfortunately, there is no treatment for rabies once symptoms appear, death usually occurs within a matter of days.

Why Rabies Vaccination Is Legally Required for Cats in Illinois

Rabies vaccination is not optional. It’s a legal requirement in Illinois and most other states. Local ordinances typically mandate rabies shots for both dogs and cats, regardless of whether the pet lives indoors or outdoors. This legal obligation protects not only your cat, but also the wider community, including other animals and people.

Veterinarians are responsible for issuing a rabies vaccination certificate and, in many cases, a rabies tag for your pet to wear. Most rabies vaccines for cats are either one-year or three-year formulations, depending on the vaccine used and your cat’s vaccination history. Keeping this vaccine up to date helps ensure compliance with local laws and maintains your cat’s protection against a fatal disease.

What to Do If You Suspect Rabies in Your Cat

If you notice any signs and symptoms of rabies in cats, especially sudden aggression, disorientation, excessive drooling, or paralysis, it’s important to take immediate action. Rabies is a reportable disease, and any suspected case must be handled with extreme care and reported to your local animal control authority. Do not attempt to handle a potentially rabid cat on your own. Quarantine protocols may apply if your cat is unvaccinated and has had contact with a wild animal or shows signs consistent with rabies. Your veterinarian can guide you through the necessary steps, which may include observation, testing, and reporting.

Rabies Prevention Starts With Awareness and Action

Rabies remains a serious threat to unvaccinated pets, and the best defense starts with proactive care. Annual or triennial rabies vaccinations, keeping your cat safely indoors, and avoiding interactions with wildlife are all important steps. Being familiar with the signs and symptoms of rabies in cats allows you to act quickly if you ever suspect a problem. If you have questions about your cat’s vaccination status or notice unusual behavior, the team at LePar Animal Hospital is here to help. Call (708) 423-3200 or book an appointment online today to keep your cat protected and up to date with their rabies vaccination.