OpenHealth Q&A

Concern Over Possible Rabies Exposure from Injured Cat

Hello, I’m a 30-year-old male, weighing 150 pounds and standing 160 centimeters tall. On March 14, 2025, a cat appeared in my backyard, displaying a serious tail injury where the bone was visible. Surprisingly, despite its injury, the cat looked healthy and was quite friendly, seeking affection. While I was petting it, the cat bit my leg, causing a minor bleed, but I didn’t think much of it at the time. I later shared this incident with friends, and one mentioned hearing on the news that there had been an uptick in rabies cases among animals, including raccoons and cats, since January. They suggested I either capture the cat for a vet examination or visit the emergency room myself. On March 18, I decided to lure the cat with food into a crate, which worked, and I took it to the vet to check its health status. The vet informed me that the cat was a stray, affectionate, and in need of care, but they speculated that the tail injury might have been inflicted by another animal. They administered a rabies vaccination for $100 without my consent. When I inquired about the risk of rabies from my bite, they expressed uncertainty, advising that I should consult a doctor just in case. I also asked if they could monitor the cat or transfer it to a shelter, but they were unable to assist since they were only a veterinary clinic. Therefore, I brought the cat back home as I had no nearby shelter options and my apartment does not permit pets. On March 19, I went to the NYC Health + Hospitals emergency room to have my wound checked. The doctor there asked about the timing of the incident, and I informed him it had been five days. He then told me that I was late for rabies vaccination and that it might be too late to begin treatment. Nevertheless, he decided to administer the vaccine and provided me with a follow-up plan, instructing me to return on days 0, 3, 7, and 14. On the second day, I visited CityMD urgent care for my subsequent vaccinations. The second shot occurred on March 22, and the third on March 26. During this third visit, the doctor in urgent care was very helpful regarding rabies protocols. She asked if I had received my first vaccine at the ER, which I confirmed. She then inquired whether I had received immunoglobulin as well. Checking an app called MyChart for my medical records, I discovered I had only received the rabies vaccine during my ER visit. The urgent care physician advised that I must return to the ER to request the immunoglobulin injection, as its absence could leave me vulnerable to rabies even with the vaccine. I am set to receive my fourth shot on April 2, 2025. I’ve been contemplating going back to the ER to ask for the immunoglobulin dose. The injured cat continues to linger in my backyard, and I’m closely observing it, though I keep my distance for safety. The cat seems to be eating and drinking the food and water I place out for it. However, my anxiety about the potential for rabies has greatly affected my sleep and appetite.

Answers (1)

3/30/2025, 7:20:41 AM

OpenHealth AI

You're right to be vigilant about potential rabies exposure, especially after a bite from a stray cat. Here's a concise overview of your situation and the next steps to consider:

Summary of Key Points

1. Rabies Risk: You experienced a cat bite and have started rabies vaccinations, but you’re missing the immunoglobulin treatment.
2. Vaccination Plan: You're following up with the rabies vaccines appropriately, but the immunoglobulin is critical for enhanced protection.
3. Ongoing Concerns: You’re worried about the bite and the ongoing presence of the injured cat.

Explanation

Rabies is a serious viral infection that can be transmitted through bites from infected animals, including cats. Vaccination is an essential preventive measure, and if you are not given immunoglobulin after a high-risk exposure, it can compromise the effectiveness of the vaccination. Your vigilant observation of the cat and your proactive approach to seeking care are commendable.

Prioritized Next Steps

1. Return to the Emergency Room: Go back to the ER as soon as possible to discuss receiving the rabies immunoglobulin. This is especially important because you were advised that your treatment could be incomplete without it. Make sure you explain that you received the rabies vaccine at the ER but not the immunoglobulin.

2. Continue Vaccination Schedule: Follow through with the scheduled rabies vaccines on April 2 and any subsequent follow-ups. Ensure you keep proper records of all vaccinations.

3. Monitor the Cat's Health Safely: While it’s great to care for the stray by providing food and water, maintain a safe distance to avoid further bites. If the cat appears to be improving, consider contacting local animal services for advice on safely relocating it, rather than keeping it in your yard.

4. Manage Anxiety and Well-being: Addressing your anxiety about rabies exposure is important for your overall health. Try engaging in calming activities such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or talking to someone you trust about your feelings. If these feelings persist and significantly affect your daily life, you might benefit from speaking with a mental health professional.

5. Observe for Symptoms: Be vigilant about your own health; if you develop symptoms like fever, headache, or behavioral changes over the next few weeks, seek medical help immediately.

By prioritizing the immunoglobulin treatment and taking care of your mental health, you can focus on your recovery while also staying safe around the stray cat. Remember, you’re not alone in this – it’s perfectly normal to feel anxious in such situations.