The disease has also been diagnosed in horses, goats, sheep, swine, and ferrets. Rabies can be prevented in cats, dogs, ferrets, and some livestock with the use of licensed rabies vaccines. With the approval of the state agency responsible for animal rabies control, the use of licensed oral vaccines for the mass immunization of wildlife is possible in selected situations. Rabies and Humans Improved rabies vaccination programs for pets and better treatment for people who have been bitten have dramatically reduced the number of human rabies cases in this country. The majority of recent human cases, which were acquired in the United States, have resulted from exposures to bats.
Dogs are still a significant source of rabies in other countries.
Be aware of this risk when traveling outside of the United States. What You Can Do To Help Control Rabies Have your veterinarian vaccinate your cats, dogs, ferrets, and selected livestock. Your veterinarian will advise you on the recommended or required frequency of vaccination in your locality. Reduce the possibility of exposure to rabies by keeping your animals on your property. Don't let pets roam free.