Once clinical signs appear, the dog or cat usually survives for a week or less. The rabid cat or dog is extremely dangerous to humans and to other animals. It often attacks viciously without provocation. In the course of a week, a rabid dog or cat may attack several wild and domestic animals thereby multiplying the hazard to public health. Even after the animal dies, it can pose a threat.
Scavengers can contract the disease from infected dead animals.
How to protect your pet. Rabies vaccines are the only practical way to prevent the disease Rabies vaccines have been used successfully for many years to protect dogs, cats and other domestic animals. All vaccines available in the United States have been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and provide at least one year of protection.