After clinical signs are observed, the animal usually dies within two to seven days. Once your pet has exhibited clinical signs, there is no cure for rabies. The only proven method of control involves routine vaccination of pets along with control of stray dogs, cats and wildlife that can carry the disease. In most communities, local regulations require that dogs be protected against rabies. In fact, in the United States more cats than dogs have contracted the disease in the last few years.
Rural cats are more numerous than rural dogs.
House cats that go outdoors occasionally are also at risk through exposure to other cats or wild animals. Because most cats are not vaccinated, they are vulnerable to rabies infection. The Rabies Cycle Skunks, raccoons, foxes and bats are the most common carriers of rabies virus. Because some of these species thrive in developed areas they pose even more of a threat to humans and their pets. In addition, animals with rabies may survive up to 6 months in the infectious state.