Infected animals can be very calm and tame. In recent years, cats have become the most common domestic animal infected with rabies because many cats are not vaccinated and are exposed to rabid wildlife while outside. Rabies also occurs in dogs and cattle in significant numbers. The disease has been diagnosed in horses, goats, sheep, swine, and ferrets. The majority of recent human cases acquired in the United States have resulted from exposures to bats.
Dogs are still a significant source of rabies in other countries.
Keep your animals on your property. Don't leave garbage or pet food outside because it may attract wild or stray animals. Observe all wild animals from a distance, even if they seem friendly. If you see a wild animal acting strangely, report it to the city or county animal control department. If your pet is bitten, immediately consult your veterinarian.