Can Kitten Scratch Cause Rabies?
December 12, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Theoretically, any mammal, including kittens, can carry the rabies virus. However, the risk of contracting rabies from a kitten scratch alone is extremely low. Rabies is primarily transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, usually via a bite.
In most cases, a scratch from a kitten wouldn’t be sufficient to transmit the rabies virus unless the kitten was actively shedding the virus in its saliva and the scratch was deep enough to introduce the virus into the bloodstream. Rabies transmission through intact skin without contact with saliva is considered highly unlikely.
If you’re concerned about rabies or if the kitten’s behavior seems abnormal or if there’s a chance the kitten has been exposed to rabies (such as contact with wild animals), it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional or a veterinarian. They can assess the situation, provide guidance, and determine if any preventive measures, such as vaccination, are necessary.