Rabies is probably the most feared animal and human disease. Rabies is a lethal viral infection that targets the nervous system and results in debilitating neurological symptoms followed by death. Rabies, once symptoms show, is always 100% lethal, and the only proven method of keeping your pet safe is prevention in the form of vaccination.

At Supertails+ , we highly recommend rabies vaccination for cats, whether they are indoor cats or outdoor cats. Although most pet parents believe that indoor cats are free from danger, the truth of the matter is that rabies can still be a risk through unintentional contact with infected animals like rodents, stray cats, or bats.

This blog includes all that you want to know concerning the rabies vaccine in cats, ranging from why it is necessary to the vaccination schedule, potential side effects, and the legalities. To ensure your cat receives the best care, Supertails offers  professional online consultations  with expert veterinarians who can guide you through the vaccination process and overall feline health. Book an online consultation today to keep your feline friend safe! Continue reading to keep your feline friend safe!

Rabies is a contagious viral disease contracted mainly by being bitten or scratched by an affected animal. It is found in the saliva of rabid dogs and infects the central nervous system, manifesting neurological illness and ultimately killing the animal.

How Cats Get Rabies?

Cats are infected with rabies by:

• Infected animal bites or scratches (dogs, raccoons, bats, foxes, or stray cats)

• Direct exposure to infected saliva by open wounds or mucous membranes

• Ingestion of infected animal prey, for example, a rabid bat or rodent

Symptoms of Rabies in Cats

Rabies incubates for 2 to 8 weeks, so symptoms may not be immediate upon exposure. When symptoms do occur, they cannot be treated. They are as follows:

• Changes in behavior (aggression, extreme fear, or sudden affection)

• Drooling and foaming at the mouth

• Difficulty walking and loss of coordination

• Paralysis and seizures

• Restlessness and biting to the extreme

As rabies is nearly always lethal, it is important to immunize your cat promptly to avoid any risk of infection.

The rabies vaccine is the best way to prevent your cat from getting infected. Here's why it matters, Vaccination helps prevent rabies and ensures your cat’s long-term health. Learn more about the Complete Cat Vaccination Schedule ( not posted yet) to keep your pet protected.

1. Saves from a Deadly Disease

Rabies is a disease that is incurable and fatal and that infects the nervous system of both animals and humans. When symptoms occur, there is no cure, and the only protection is prevention by vaccination. The rabies vaccine protects your cat from this lethal virus. By timely vaccination, you are preventing the risk of rabies infection and its sad outcome.

2. Averts Zoonotic Transmission

Rabies is a zoonotic illness that can be transferred from animals to humans by the bite or scratch. If the cat is unvaccinated and gets the rabies illness, they may pass the illness to their pets, family, or owners. Vaccination helps to act as a shield preventing the exposure of humans to such a deadly virus. This especially comes in handy in homes that have children, older people, or immunocompromised persons.

3. Mandatory by Law in Most Locations

In most states and nations, rabies vaccination is compulsory for all household cats. The government may insist on proof of vaccination when registering pets, traveling, or even when obtaining veterinary care. Failure to comply with such laws will result in fines, quarantine of your pet, or, in worst-case scenarios, euthanasia if your cat contracts rabies. Staying current on vaccination is not only legally compliant but also stress-free.

4. Essential for Indoor Cats Too

Even though your cat is indoors, they are not entirely safe from coming into contact with rabies. Stray animals infected with rabies, rodents, or bats sometimes gain entry into the house through open windows, basements, or balconies. There is also a chance of an accidental escape, and your cat could get exposed to an infected animal outside. Indoor cats are protected against all these chances when inoculated with the rabies vaccine.

5. Sustains Other Pets and Animals

Rabies is a very infectious disease with the potential to spread quickly through animals, domestic as well as wild. An unvaccinated cat infected with rabies can easily infect other family pets and lead to a deadly outbreak. By getting your cat vaccinated, you are helping achieve the broader objective of rabies control within the community and avoiding its transmission between domesticated and wild animals. A vaccinated pet makes the surrounding environment safer for everyone.

Making sure your cat is on the right schedule of rabies vaccination is important to provide lifetime protection. Supertails+ focuses on on-time vaccinations to ensure your pet remains healthy and safe from the possibility of transmitting rabies.The vaccine timing varies with the age of your cat and the vaccine type used. The following is a formalized schedule to guide you on when and how frequently your cat should be vaccinated.

1. First Rabies Vaccine (For Kittens)

• Kittens are required to have the first vaccination with rabies vaccine between 12 and 16 weeks.

• As young kittens are very susceptible to infections, early vaccination is important.

• This first dose develops immunity against rabies and readies their system for future protection.

• Another booster dose is needed after a year to boost their immunity and maintain protection.

2. Booster Shot (At One Year)

• After your kitten reaches one year of age, they need a rabies booster shot.

• This booster boosts their immune system and makes them more capable of resisting the rabies virus.

• A single dose confers immunity but booster doses need to be continued in the later years.

• Vaccination during this period guarantees that your cat is safe as they grow into adulthood.

3. Booster Shots (Every 1-3 Years)

• Following the primary injections, adult cats need periodic booster shots to ensure they are immune.

• Boosters vary based on the type of vaccine applied:

• Annual boosters are required for some vaccines (1-year vaccine).

• Longer immunity and revaccination every three years are required by others (3-year vaccine).

• Supertails+ veterinarians will determine the best vaccination plan based on your cat's lifestyle and health.

• Boosters are required regularly to keep your cat protected against rabies at all times during their lifespan.

Also, read-  Dog Vaccination Made Easy: A Complete Care Guide  

The vast majority of cats do well with the rabies vaccine, but as with any medical procedure, there can be some minor side effects. These side effects are short term and will pass on their own. Unfortunately, in some cases, more severe side effects can happen that will necessitate veterinary care. Knowing what to watch for can assist cat owners with effective monitoring of their pets post-vaccination.

Common Side Effects

Following vaccination with the rabies vaccine, some cats can have mild side effects that usually occur within 24 to 48 hours. Mild reactions are a normal part of the body's response to the vaccine.

• Mild swelling or soreness at the injection site : Some cats develop a small lump or mild soreness at the site of the shot.

• Mild fever: A mild rise in body temperature is usual as the immune system reacts to the vaccine.

• Loss of appetite: Your cat might eat less than normal for a day or two, but appetite should normalize soon.

• Temporary lethargy: Some cats might appear drowsy or less active following vaccination, which is a normal response as their body adapts.

These side effects are not something to worry about and will disappear in a couple of days. If your cat still has symptoms after this time, however, it is best to visit your veterinarian.

Rare But Serious Side Effects

Though rare, some cats will experience more serious reactions to the rabies vaccine. If you observe any of the following, immediately see a veterinarian:

• Allergic Reactions: A severe allergic reaction is indicated by swelling of the face, overproduction of drool, vomiting, diarrhea, labored breathing, or collapse. These occur within hours of vaccination and demand immediate medical intervention.

• Feline Injection-Site Sarcoma (FISS): In a very rare situation, a cat might develop an injection-site tumor called feline injection-site sarcoma. This is extremely rare but should be watched for. If you see a lump that persists and increases over weeks or months, see a veterinarian.

Taking a few precautions prior to and following the rabies vaccination can ensure your cat is comfortable and recovers without any issues:

• Book a Vet Appointment: Prior to vaccinating, take your cat in for a check-up to make sure they are healthy enough for the shot. A healthy cat is less likely to have any side effects.

• Watch Your Cat After Vaccination : Keep your cat under close observation for the next 24-48 hours. Observe for any odd behavior or signs that could point toward an allergic reaction.

• Provide Hydration and Comfort: Ensure that your cat is resting in a safe and cozy location after being vaccinated. Support them with hydration and their preferred cuisine if they show resistance to consuming food . Learn about the  Best Hydration Tips for Cats  to prevent dehydration.

Vaccinating your cat for rabies is an important part of keeping them safe and healthy in the long term. With the right information on side effects and aftercare, you can ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible. If you are unsure,  Supertails+ professionals are always here to assist you through the process of your cat's vaccination. This is Bengaluru’s first pet clinic with Fear-Free Certified Vets, we provide expert guidance on vaccinations and health checks. 

Rabies vaccination is a critical element of responsible cat ownership, ensuring your cat to be safe against a fatal and irreversible disease. Adhering to the routine vaccination schedule and remaining vigilant with regard to any possible side effects, you will be able to keep your cat safe and in good health. Mild side effects are not only usual but often occur, with severe side effects being unusual; prompt veterinary consultation can treat such issues. Regular boosters ensure immunity, providing your cat with long-term protection. Prioritizing rabies vaccination not only protects your pet but also helps in public health by avoiding the transmission of the virus.

1. Does an Indoor Cat Need a Rabies Vaccine?

Yes! Even household cats can get exposed to rabies by way of bats, mice, or inadvertent outdoors trips. In addition, a large part of the world also mandatorily vaccinates for rabies all cats, irrespective of them remaining indoors or not. Immunizing makes their life safer against surprises.

2. How Long Does the Rabies Vaccine Last?

The length of protection from the rabies vaccine varies with the type given. There are vaccines which provide 1-year immunity, and others provide 3 years. Nevertheless, there are booster shots needed to be administered regularly to retain long-term immunity and maintain protection.

3. What If My Cat Forgets a Rabies Booster?

If your cat has missed a booster shot, their immunity can decrease, and they become more likely to get infected. It's best to have a vaccination appointment soon to re-establish protection. A vet will determine if a new booster or revaccination series is required.