Many people keep various pets at home. Often, some of them, living with people for many years, become full members of the family. Both children and adults get used to them very much. When a pet gets sick, everyone is worried. It is very important to contact a veterinarian in a timely manner in such cases to examine the animal.
The closest and oldest four-legged friends of man are dogs and cats. Diseases, the symptoms of their manifestation should be well known to every owner of the animal. After all, one must always be ready to provide quick help to “our smaller brothers”. In this article we will talk about the currently incurable and very dangerous disease for humans - rabies. This virus is transmitted from wild animals to domestic animals, which, in turn, can infect humans. But, unfortunately, it is not always possible to avoid this disease of cats. The symptoms and treatment of rabies should be known to the pet owner. Unfortunately, the disease almost always leads to the death of the animal. After all, the virus infects the central nervous system in a matter of days,and no one can help an infected pet.
What is the causative agent of this most dangerous virus and how does rabies manifest itself in a cat? The symptoms described below will help pet owners to always be on the lookout to protect their family from possible infection in case of accidental bites in any case.
How does rabies manifest in a cat? Symptoms of the first stage - melancholic
The mood of the animal is subject to frequent changes. The cat is sometimes too affectionate, sometimes it is frightened by the slightest rustle and tries to hide somewhere. The first signs of aggression appear in the form of small, causeless biting. At the same time, the animal is often interested in completely unexpected objects, trying to scratch and “try on the tooth” inedible objects and things. The cat may sluggishly chew food with increased salivation. The duration of the first period of illness is one to three days.
How does rabies manifest in a cat? Symptoms of the second stage - manic
The animal becomes very excitable and aggressive not only towards dogs, but also towards people (including owners). The cat refuses its usual food, while trying to bite all the things that are around, damaging its mucous membrane and breaking its teeth. Then, suddenly, aggressive behavior is replaced by depression. The cat becomes lethargic and her voice becomes hoarse. Convulsions begin, the jaw is paralyzed, which makes eating impossible.
How does rabies manifest in a cat? Symptoms of the third stage - the final
There is a complete paralysis of the entire body of the animal, and this leads to the death of the cat. It takes about five days from the onset of the disease. Often, rabies in a cat manifests itself in a sluggish form, bypassing the second aggressive stage. Then the death of the animal can happen much faster - on the second or fourth day.
Need for rabies prevention
Due to the danger of the virus to humans, it is recommended that pets be vaccinated, thereby protecting them and preventing the development of the disease. It is also worth limiting the contact of a pet with wild animals due to possible infection. Take care of your four-legged friends!
