iCliniq Logo
HomeAnswersGeneral Practitionerrabies

Do cats transmit rabies infection to humans?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Can rabies transmission occur from cats to humans? If the suspected cat is alive for more than 10 days, is there any chance of infection?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, rabiescould be transmitted from cats to humans. The maximum incubation period for this infection is 10 days. So, till that the animal should be observed. If you can describe your wound and its depth, the treatment can be decided. I hope this helps. Thank you and take care.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I do not have a cut or a scratch mark. The cat is healthy even after 10 days. Why is there a 10-days observation period? Is there any logic behind it?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is good that there is no cut or a scratch mark. The period up to which the patient can get infected from the animal is 10 days. For example, if a human was bitten by a cat five days back, some patients will have the symptoms within two days, and in some, it appears utmost on the 10th day. So, it is set as the maximum safe period. Thank you and take care.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Published At September 22, 2017
Reviewed AtJune 20, 2023

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Listen to related tracks in our music library
Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

rabiesrabies incubation period

Ask your health query to a doctor online

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.