Do I need to Rabies vaccinate?
A topic that comes up often is, do I need to rabies vaccinate? With most concepts, there are multiple opinions.
The first thing that comes to mind is most states require rabies vaccination. There is a bill in Colorado that imposes a state requirement that all cats or dogs over the age of 4 months is required to be vaccinated. In addition, a veterinary hospital may deny services to unvaccinated clients.
My cat doesn’t go outside, “why do I need to vaccinate against rabies?” I have never been a proponent for vaccinating or not vaccinating. Here are some things to consider if you are thinking about not vaccinating your cat or dog against rabies. First of all… what is rabies? If you have ever seen the Stephen King movie, “Cujo”, you are likely terrified of the potential of crossing paths with a large rabid dog! It doesn’t matter how many times I have seen the movie; I still get chills down my spine just at the thought of it!
Rabies, according to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) is a preventable viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal. The rabies virus infects the central nervous system of the mammal’s, ultimately causing the disease to brain and death.
Sadly, the only way to determine if an animal has rabies, (other than a 10-day quarantine) is to evaluate the brain of the animal that is suspected to have been infected with rabies. Unfortunately, I speak from first hand experience with this topic. An immediate family member experienced this scenario first hand when she was attacked. In addition to a traumatic experience as well as a trip to the emergency room she was facing this same scenario.
Things you should consider when considering NOT vaccinating. Will you take your animal to the groomer, the dog park, boarding during an unplanned trip or close proximity to other animals or children? I also had first-hand experience with this when a squirrel became trapped in my (unused) fireplace after it managed to fall down the chimney! Voiding all details, this was quite the experience. Had the squirrel been able to push the glass fireplace doors open that could have ended much like Stephen King’s story of Cujo. Fortunately, we made through that experience unscathed.
So, when asked, do I need to get my cat or dog rabies vaccinated, take all factors into effect in addition to the laws in your state.
The worst-case scenario may not end well for your pampered pet. While I am not personally a big advocate for over vaccinating, I encourage you to take all variables into account before deciding whether to rabies vaccinate or not as well as a discussion with your veterinarian.
The 10 Signs your Cat or Dog has Rabies are:
Initial Symptoms of rabies can include: Aggression, licking the bite, withdrawal and restlessness.
Advance Symptoms of rabies can include: Dilated pupils, seizures, lack of fear and furiousness.
Final Symptoms of rabies can include: Paralysis and salivating.
In conclusion, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. We recommend keeping your cat or dog away from stray dogs and wild animals.
This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, veterinary care, diagnosis, treatment, and does not constitute medical or other professional advice. Never disregard professional veterinary advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read or seen on our website.