Your furry friends are a cherished part of your family, so you will do anything to keep then healthy. And this includes routine pet vaccinations. Even if your pet lives their entire life indoors, they could be susceptible to diseases like rabies. This guide will break down how rabies affects cats and why even indoor pets need to be immunized.

Understanding the Importance of Rabies Vaccines

What Is Rabies?

Rabies is a disease that affects the central nervous system, and it is often fatal. This disease is generally spread when an infected animal bites your pet. It can also spread through saliva. Domestic cats can contract rabies from wild animals like skunks, raccoons, and bats. 

How Can Rabies Affect Your Cat?

If an infected animal bites your cat, you might not notice symptoms right away. Signs of rabies can develop after several months. In cats, these symptoms include seizures, paralysis, weakness, changes in behavior, aggression, lethargy, and disorientation. Since there is no treatment for rabies, the disease does result in death. This is why pet vaccinations and prevention are key.

Do Indoor Cats Need to be Vaccinated?

Remember that even if your cat lives indoors, they may still escape and come in contact with a wild animal. If they are infected, your pet could die. Rabies vaccinations are the best line of defense against the virus, so all pets should be immunized. In fact, your state may even require a rabies vaccination by law. Take your cat and other pets in for updated pet vaccinations, ensuring that they are protected against rabies and other diseases. 

Pet owners can trust our team at Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic with the health of their furry friends. Located in Stratford, CT, we offer pet vaccinations, spaying, neutering, microchipping, and diagnostic services. With a focus on overpopulation awareness and pet health, we complete each procedure with care and ensure your pet’s comfort. To learn more about our services, visit us online. You can also call (2013) 690-1550 to schedule an appointment.