Since 1981, in the United States, more cats than dogs have been infected with rabbies. Some infected animals avoid contact with humans, others become abnormally aggressive and may attack other animals or humans. Cats get this disease by being bitten by infected animals. In North America rabies is most commonly spread by racoons, skunks, foxes and bats but any warm-blooded animal may carry it. Cats should be vaccinated at 12 weeks of age or older, then given a booster shot once a year or once every three threes, depending on the initial dosage.
Some states require boosters yearly.
There is no treatment for animals infected with rabies, they have to be killed. Humans can be treated, but treatment is expensive and painful. Have your cat vaccinated and be cautious around animals you do not know are healthy.