If you have a cat in your care and they are over the age of 3 months, then it is highly likely that your cat has received their rabies vaccine. Most cats get their rabies vaccination at roughly 12 weeks of age, and this necessary vaccination is taken as a much-needed precaution.
Unvaccinated cats which are allowed to roam outdoors are obviously at high-risk for developing rabies. The disease is often spread from the bite of an infected animal. Even in our modern society, year after year cats develop this deadly disease because they are not vaccinated. It’s not hard to do, and many programs offer low cost assistance for this crucial vaccine.
PetMD.com defines the telltale signs of rabies in cats as:
- Sudden changes in behavior, such as aggression, lethargy or restlessness
- Increased vocalization, yowling, etc.
- Sudden loss of appetite
- Malaise, weakness and disorientation
- Paralysis, seizures, and even cases of sudden death
Late last year, Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner signed legislation into law that amended Illinois’ Animal Control Act. Therefore as of January 1, 2020, the new law went into effect across the entire state. Officials in Illinois feel strongly that this will help to protect not only cats, but people, too.
WIFR 23 News shares the news on this new law which requires all cats in Illinois to have their rabies vaccine:
Feral cat colonies still remain a host for rabies in many cases, and I believe it is very wise regardless of where you reside to have your cat vaccinated against it. For cats that do go outdoors freely, there is always the possibility that they can get into a fight or come into contact with a rabid animal. Being safe than sorry is always best when it comes to your feline friend.
Rabies fact: The rabies virus can incubate in a cat’s body anywhere from just one week to more than a year before becoming active.
Even for cats that live exclusively indoors, accidents can always happen. It is always better to be on the safe side and have our cats vaccinated in the event that this happens.
Do you think that this cat rabies vaccine law should be made nationwide? Share with us your thoughts in the comment section!
(The full law is here should you like to read it.)
Did you know that it is now a federal offense to abuse animals in the United States? Read about that law here on cattitudedaily.com.
