CritterChatter™ Blog
Rabies
| Description | Rhabdovirus that is carried by certain carnivorous mammals and bats |
|---|---|
| Location | Worldwide, except Australia and Antarctica |
| Cause | Acute disease from a bite by an infected animal Considered fatal |
| Symptoms | Brain infection |
| Treatment | Immediately scrub the bite wound with soap and water Apply a strong first aid solution (such as iodine) or cream Seek medical attention from a physician |
| Prevention | Get vaccinated before possible contact with infected animals Avoid contact with possible infected animals |
| Handling Animals | Wild animals may behave unusual Dumb rabies: Causes tremors and convulsions Furious rabies: Causes aggressive behavior before convulsions and paralysis set in Behavioral changes: friendliness, loss of fear, appearance in the daytime (for nocturnal animals), unprovoked attacks, bewilderment aimless wandering, unusual barking, crying and frothing at the mouth |
| Other Facts | Can infect all warm-blooded animals Most cases are from dogs and cats Once infected, the virus spreads to the brain and then to other organs |
