EPIDEMIOLOGIC AND CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF RABIES IN CATS

The epizootic of rabies in raccoons in Maryland has been accompanied by 129 confirmed cases of rabies in cats from Jan 1, 1983 to Sept 30, 1992 and only 12 cases in dogs. An epidemiologic and clinical study of rabies in cats was conducted for the period Jan 1, 1983 to May 31, 1986. Only 3 of 31 rabid cats had a history of being currently vaccinated against rabies, and 13 were of unknown ownership. A history of prior wound or injury within 6 months of onset of signs of rabies was reported in 11 of the cats and most of these had a wound in a hind limb. The median interval between reporting of a wound and a development of rabies was 4 to 6 weeks. Rabies in cats is difficult to diagnose in the early stages and, of the 14 cats examined by a veterinarian, only 3 were believed to have rabies on initial examination. Major signs of rabies in cats reported by veterinarians included behavior change, gait abnormality, strange or unusual look in the eyes, and a wound within the preceding 6 months. Owners reported increased frequency of vocalization as an early sign. Postexposure treatment was given to 194 human beings including 63 veterinarians or their personnel, The estimated cost of postexposure biologics was $68,000.