Should You Never Get Rabies Vaccine After Being Bitten by a Cat?

When bitten by a cat, many people are unsure whether they need to receive a rabies vaccination. In fact, whether a rabies vaccination is necessary after a cat bite mainly depends on the cat's health status and the severity of the bite. Typically, domestic cats that are regularly vaccinated have a very low chance of being infected with rabies, but if the cat is a stray or its health status is unknown, extra caution is required.

Let's first look at the basic knowledge about rabies. Rabies is an acute infectious disease caused by the rabies virus, which is mainly transmitted to humans through animal bites. Although most people associate rabies with dogs, cats are also one of the animals that can carry the rabies virus. After being bitten by a cat, prompt wound treatment is a crucial step in preventing infection. Thoroughly clean the wound with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes to effectively reduce virus residue.

Receiving a rabies vaccination is an important means of preventing rabies. If you are bitten by a cat and are unsure of its health status, or if the bite is severe, it is recommended to seek medical attention and receive a rabies vaccination as soon as possible. The doctor will determine whether vaccination is needed based on the specific situation. Never neglect the importance of vaccination due to a sense of luck, as the fatality rate of rabies once infected is almost 100%.

For those who are slightly bitten by a domestic cat, if the cat is in good health and regularly vaccinated, the likelihood of rabies infection is extremely low. Even so, it is necessary to observe changes in the cat's behavior. If the cat exhibits abnormal behavior after biting someone, such as lethargy or loss of appetite, it is advisable to be vigilant and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

In summary, whether a rabies vaccination is needed after being bitten by a cat cannot be generalized. Understanding the cat's health status, promptly treating the wound, and receiving a vaccination if necessary are all effective ways to prevent the occurrence of rabies. We hope that after being bitten by a cat, everyone can make rational judgments and protect their health.