Understanding Rabies Vaccination for Cats: Frequency and Risks

As a veterinary professional, I am often asked about the frequency of rabies vaccinations for cats. The fact is, the need for these vaccinations is influenced by several factors, including the type of vaccine used and the cat's vaccination history. In most municipalities, the rabies vaccination is a legal requirement, and failure to comply can result in significant fines.

The Importance of Rabies Vaccination

One common misconception is that a yearly rabies shot is the same as a series of shots given approximately 3-4 weeks apart. Unlike other vaccines, such as those for distemper, the rabies vaccine is typically given as a single dose annually. If a cat has been exposed to rabies but is already current on their rabies shot, it is standard practice in veterinary clinics to give them a booster shot. This is a precautionary measure because rabies is 100% fatal to both animals and humans.

Reiterate the severity:

RABIES IS 100 FATAL ONCE SYMPTOMS START TO APPEAR. DO NOT “EFF” WITH RABIES!

It's crucial to understand that during the incubation period, when the virus travels through the nerves to the brain, there are no visible symptoms. By the time symptoms appear, the infection is essentially terminal. Although there have been rare cases where individuals have survived after being treated in a medically induced coma, those survivors often faced severe neurological damage. Therefore, it is always safer to ensure that your pet is vaccinated against rabies.

Types of Rabies Vaccines

When it comes to the types of rabies vaccines available, two major options are commonly used:

Merial Imrab Vaccine: This is the most common type of rabies vaccine and is known to last for three years. It is also the most affordable, typically costing about half as much as other options. However, it is more commonly associated with a rare but significant side effect: vaccine-associated injection site sarcoma. This is a type of skin cancer that can develop at the injection site. To minimize the risk, the vaccine is usually administered in the leg, allowing for more severe surgical interventions should a growth appear. The incidence of this cancer is estimated to be around 1 in 25,000 cats, although this number may be even lower.

Canarypox Vaccine: This vaccine is more expensive but is not associated with the development of injection site sarcomas. It needs to be boosted annually, but it offers a safer alternative for those concerned about the rare side effects of the Merial Imrab vaccine. This vaccine is the only option that does not increase the risk of developing the aforementioned skin cancer.

Veterinarian Consultation: Different veterinarians may carry different types of vaccines. It is essential to consult with your vet before administering any rabies vaccine. You cannot purchase it yourself at a store like Tractor Supply. Ensure that the vaccine is administered by a licensed veterinarian to guarantee its effectiveness and safety for your cat.