What to Do When Your Cat Bites You During Quarantine

If you’ve been bitten by a cat and it has been placed in quarantine, you might be wondering what to do next. This detailed guide will help you navigate the situation, ensuring you understand the process and what to expect during the 10-day quarantine period.

Understanding the Quarantine Period

When a cat is placed in quarantine for 10 days after a bite, it is a precautionary measure to monitor the cat for signs of rabies. This is particularly important for unvaccinated or out-of-date vaccinated pets. Rabies is a serious and fatal disease if left untreated.

Signs to Look Out For During the Quarantine

The primary concern during the quarantine period is the absence of neurologic signs. If the cat does not exhibit any symptoms of rabies within this 10-day period, you do not need to undergo post-exposure treatment. However, if the cat dies or shows any behavior that suggests rabies, such as hydrophobia, its head will be tested at an accredited laboratory.

What Happens If the Cat Shows Signs of Rabies?

If the cat dies or exhibits neurotic behavior, the authorities will require the head to be tested for rabies. In such a case, you will likely need to receive post-exposure shots to prevent the disease. This underscores the importance of keeping your pet up to date with rabies vaccines in accordance with local laws.

Preventive Measures

To avoid the need for quarantine, it is essential to maintain your cat's vaccinations. In the United States, it is a legal requirement to vaccinate your pet against rabies. This is especially important if your cat is an indoor pet with limited exposure to the outside world.

Low-Risk Situations

If your cat is an indoor-only pet and does not have exposure to wild animals or unvaccinated housemates, your risk of exposure to rabies is low. However, if your cat goes outside or interacts with other animals, the risk increases. In these cases, maintaining up-to-date vaccinations is crucial.

What to Do During the Wait

While you wait for the 10-day quarantine period to elapse, it is a good idea to remain calm. Trust that the authorities are waiting for the results before making any decisions. If you haven’t heard from them by the 11th day, don’t hesitate to call your doctor or the animal control office for updates. Remember, they will inform you as soon as possible if there is any concern.

Conclusion

By understanding the process, you can better prepare yourself for any outcomes. Keeping your pet up to date with vaccinations and monitoring their behavior can significantly reduce the risk of rabies. The 10-day quarantine period is a critical safeguard in this process, ensuring public health and safety. Ultimately, your furry friend’s vaccination status is key to preventing exposure to this fatal disease.

References

1. CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Postexposure prophylaxis for rabies. 2. ASPCA. Rabies vaccinations. 3. AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association). Rabies informational page.