can ataxia be caused by an insect bite
ï· Rabies: This is a possible cause of ataxia in endemic areas and is contracted via a bite from a rabid animal such as a fox, bat, skunk, raccoon or dog. The rabies virus enters the nervous system at the level of the bite, and may cause changes in mentation and/or ataxia depending on the location of the bite. There is no treatment for rabies once signs appear, but there is a good vaccine available. The vaccination is recommended for horses that live in endemic areas.