Rabies in Cats & Dogs
What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know
Rabies is a serious, deadly disease that affects both animals and people — but the good news is, it's completely preventable.
🦠 What is Rabies?
Rabies is a viral disease that attacks the brain and nervous system. It’s usually spread through the bite of an infected animal. In South Africa, rabies is a real concern — especially in areas where stray dogs, wildlife, and unvaccinated pets come into contact. Once symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal — in both animals and humans.
🐶🐱 How Do Pets Get Rabies?
Your dog or cat can catch rabies if they’re bitten or scratched by an infected animal, like:
- Stray dogs
- Wild animals such as mongooses or jackals
- Even livestock or bats in some cases
If your pet becomes infected, they can pass the virus on to you, your family, or other animals.
⚠️ What Happens if a Human Gets Rabies?
Rabies in humans is extremely dangerous. Early symptoms are like the flu — fever, headache, and weakness — but it quickly worsens to confusion, seizures, and coma. Once symptoms start, there’s no cure.
Prevention is critical. Rabies can only be stopped before symptoms start.
💉 How Can You Protect Your Pets and Family?
✅ Vaccinate Your Pets
The rabies vaccine is safe, effective, and required by law in South Africa. Puppies and kittens should get their first rabies vaccine at 3 months old, with regular boosters as advised by your vet.
✅ Keep Your Pets Away from Strays and Wildlife
Don’t let your pets roam freely, especially in areas where wild or stray animals are common.
✅ Report Stray or Suspected Rabid Animals
If you notice animals acting strangely (e.g., aggressive, foaming at the mouth, stumbling), contact your local animal control or vet clinic immediately.
✅ Seek Help Immediately if Bitten or Scratched
If you or your child is bitten or scratched by an animal — even if it’s a pet — wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes and go to the doctor right away.
🏥 We're Here to Help
At Driehoek Veterinary Hospital, we offer affordable rabies vaccinations and are happy to answer any questions about how to protect your pets. Keeping your pet vaccinated doesn’t just save their life — it protects your whole family and community.
📅 Book your rabies vaccine today and stay safe, always.
