Rabies Concerns: What to Do After a Stray Cat Scratch

Q: Rabies Concerns: What to Do After a Stray Cat Scratch

Hello： <br>1. <br>Symptoms of rabies infection in cats include agitation, excessive salivation, photophobia, and hiding in dark places, among others. <br>Typically, symptoms appear 2 to 4 days before the onset of paralysis and death. <br>Although your stray cat exhibits similar s

Rabies Issues

Hello, doctor.
There is a stray cat that was drooling, meowing loudly, and acting erratically yesterday, unable to stay still and moving around a lot.
Today, it hasn't shown up at all (it used to come out on time for meals and was never aggressive).
While observing it, I accidentally got scratched on my nose, which bled a little.
I would like to know if this stray cat might have rabies, and whether I need to get vaccinated (it has been two days since the incident).

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/14

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello:
1.
Symptoms of rabies infection in cats include agitation, excessive salivation, photophobia, and hiding in dark places, among others.
Typically, symptoms appear 2 to 4 days before the onset of paralysis and death.
Although your stray cat exhibits similar symptoms, rabies infection in Taiwan is primarily found in wildlife such as ferrets and civets, and stray cats are not common hosts for rabies.
It usually requires assessment by the central agricultural authority to determine suspected rabies virus infection, or observation of suspected rabies symptoms within 10 days, along with a high suspicion from veterinary inspection agencies, to objectively confirm rabies infection.
If you have concerns, it is advisable to notify the local animal disease control agency.
2.
Generally, if bitten or scratched by a stray dog or cat, rabies immunoglobulin or vaccination will only be administered if suspected rabies infection is confirmed by the aforementioned authorities.
Otherwise, vaccination would be at your own expense.
The incubation period for rabies typically ranges from 1 to 3 months.
If you have concerns, it is recommended that you seek medical advice to discuss whether you should receive the vaccine at your own expense.

Reply Date: 2023/08/14

More Info

If you have been scratched by a stray cat that exhibited unusual behavior, such as excessive drooling, aggression, and disorientation, it is essential to take this situation seriously, as these can be signs of rabies. Rabies is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system and is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. Here’s what you should consider and the steps you should take:
1. Assess the Cat's Behavior: The symptoms you described—excessive drooling, aggression, and inability to stay still—are concerning. While not all stray cats are rabid, these behaviors can indicate illness. Rabies is typically transmitted through bites or scratches from an infected animal, and the virus is present in the saliva of infected animals.

2. Immediate Care for the Scratch: Clean the scratch thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. This is crucial as it can significantly reduce the risk of infection, including rabies. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic and cover the wound with a sterile bandage.

3. Consult a Healthcare Professional: Given the circumstances, it is vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A healthcare provider can evaluate your risk based on the cat's behavior and your exposure. They may recommend post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for rabies, which typically involves a series of rabies vaccinations.

4. Timing of Vaccination: Rabies vaccinations are most effective when administered as soon as possible after exposure. Although you mentioned that it has been two days since the scratch, it is still important to consult a healthcare professional immediately. The sooner you receive treatment, the better your chances of preventing the disease.

5. Monitoring the Cat: If the stray cat is still around, try to observe its behavior. If it appears sick or continues to act strangely, it may be best to report it to local animal control or a veterinarian. They can assess the cat and determine if it needs to be tested for rabies.

6. Understanding Rabies Transmission: Rabies is primarily transmitted through bites, but scratches can also pose a risk if the cat's saliva comes into contact with an open wound. The incubation period for rabies can vary, but symptoms usually appear within one to three months after exposure. However, it can take longer in some cases.

7. Vaccination and Prevention: If you are at risk of rabies exposure, your healthcare provider may recommend a rabies vaccination series. This typically includes a dose of rabies immune globulin (RIG) and rabies vaccine on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 after exposure.
8. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about rabies and its transmission. Understanding the risks can help you make informed decisions in the future. If you encounter stray animals, it’s best to avoid contact, as their health status is often unknown.

In summary, given the circumstances of your exposure to a potentially rabid cat, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Prompt action can be life-saving, and your healthcare provider will guide you on the necessary steps to take. Remember, rabies is a preventable disease, and timely vaccination is key to ensuring your safety.

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