Do We Need to Consider Rabies Vaccination?
My cat has been unwell for some time, dealing with a urinary tract infection and potentially some kidney problems. Recently, he accidentally bit my daughter while she was feeding him, mistaking her finger for food. The bite caused some bleeding, so we cleaned it with soap and put her on antibiotics. I contacted the veterinarian to confirm that my cat's vaccinations were current, and they assured me that he is up to date. Lately, he has been excessively drinking water, has experienced weight loss, and feels cool to the touch. Fortunately, there are no signs of foaming at the mouth or aggression; however, I have noticed some tearing in his eyes. Despite these issues, he remains affectionate and calm. It's been over ten days since he began showing signs of illness, while it's only been four days since the incident with my daughter. He cohabits with two other indoor cats, both of whom appear to be completely healthy, although they are overdue for their rabies vaccinations by several months. While he is managing to hang on, I'm uncertain if he will pull through for ten more days. Should we go ahead and get my daughter vaccinated against rabies, and what does the doctor recommend in such situations? Thank you!
Answers (1)
7/17/2025, 12:20:49 AM
OpenHealth AI
In this situation, your main concerns are your cat's health and whether your daughter needs rabies vaccination after being bitten. Let's break this down systematically.
Key Points:
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Rabies Risk Assessment: Given that your cat is up to date on vaccinations, the risk of rabies transmission through a bite is very low. However, since your cat is experiencing health issues and your other cats are overdue for rabies vaccinations, caution is warranted.
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Cat’s Health Concerns: Your cat's excessive drinking, weight loss, and other symptoms may indicate a significant health issue, potentially related to kidney problems or other conditions. These should be monitored closely.
Explanation:
- The risk of rabies from your cat to your daughter is minimal, especially since you confirmed that your cat is vaccinated. Rabies is more of a concern in unvaccinated pets, particularly if they show signs of illness.
- The symptoms you describe in your cat (excessive thirst, weight loss, tearing) are concerning and may be related to a serious condition, such as diabetes or kidney disease.
- It's vital to monitor the health of your other indoor cats, as their overdue vaccinations could put them at risk, and they may also require veterinary attention.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Daughter: Keep an eye on the bite area for signs of infection (increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus). Since she was put on antibiotics, ensure she completes her course. If any signs of infection develop, seek prompt medical advice.
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Consult with a Veterinarian: Given your cat's worsening condition, prioritize taking him back to the vet for a thorough evaluation. Explain all his symptoms in detail. This will help in identifying the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
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Vaccinate Other Cats: Schedule vaccinations for your other two cats as soon as possible to ensure they are protected against rabies.
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Vaccination Consideration for Your Daughter: While the risk is low, consult with a healthcare provider about whether rabies post-exposure prophylaxis is necessary, based on your daughter's injury and current knowledge of your cat's health.
In Summary:
Your daughter’s risk from the cat is low due to vaccination status, but remaining vigilant about potential infection is crucial. Ensure your cat receives veterinary attention for his health issues, and update vaccinations for your other cats. Stay in close communication with healthcare and veterinary professionals regarding your and your pets' health.
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