OVMA Handbooks
Issue link: https://publications.ovma.org/i/995093
A CAT OWNER'S HANDBOOK | 27 RABIES WHAT IS RABIES? Rabies is a viral disease transmitted through the saliva or tissues in the nervous system from one infected mammal to another. Rabies can be transmitted from a wild animal (i.e. bat or raccoon) to a cat, dog or human, and from pets to humans via a bite or scratch. The virus attacks the central nervous system, causing severe neurological symptoms and then death. Rabies is one of the deadliest diseases on Earth, with a 99.9 per cent fatality rate. DOES RABIES EXIST IN ONTARIO? Yes, rabies poses a significant threat to wildlife, pets and humans in Ontario. Over the last several years, there's been a spike of cases in wildlife, primarily in bats, skunks, foxes and racoons. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency tracks the number of reported rabies cases in each province by year. To view a list of reported cases by area, visit inspection.gc.ca and type in the search "rabies in Canada". HOW CAN I PROTECT MY CAT AGAINST RABIES? The best way to protect against rabies is by vaccinating your pet. By law, all cats over three months of age must have either a current Certificate of Vaccination or a current Statement of Exemption issued by a veterinarian for that animal. Unvaccinated animals are a risk to human health, and owners of unvaccinated animals can be subject to fines. HOW LONG DOES THE RABIES VACCINE LAST? Rabies vaccinations protect your pet for one to three years, depending on the vaccine used. Talk to your veterinarian about the vaccine that's best for your pet. MY CAT ENCOUNTERED A WILD ANIMAL THAT I'M CONCERNED MIGHT BE RABID. WHAT SHOULD I DO? If you suspect your pet may have been exposed to a rabid animal, contact your veterinarian immediately. A CAT OWNER'S HANDBOOK | 27