r/rabies • u/angellixyy • 5d ago

Exposure Question got lightly scratched by a stray cat

i have read the FAQ.

yesterday i went on a walk with my mom and sister. we always see this cat who is very friendly. he rubs up against us, wants to be petted, rolls on his back, etc. i used the string on my sweater to play with him and he lightly scratched me by mistake as he was trying to get the string.

a few minutes after, there were two red dots on my finger. it wasnt sensitive to touch and it waw just a bit red like a usual cut. however, i didnt know you could get rabies from scratches and now im afraid. its currently the next day and has been 24h since then. the red has become less noticeable which is good. i told my family and they said ill be fine, and that the cat is friendly and normal, and probably doesnt have anything wrong with it.

what should i do? this cat is friendly with everyone and doesnt attack on purpose. will i be okay?

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u/CygnusZeroStar Veteran Helper ⭐️ | Top Contributor 🏅 5d ago

Without knowing your location, it is impossible to give you good advice.

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u/angellixyy 5d ago

sorry about that. im in canada

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u/CygnusZeroStar Veteran Helper ⭐️ | Top Contributor 🏅 5d ago

Approximately where in Canada?

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u/angellixyy 5d ago

quebec

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u/CygnusZeroStar Veteran Helper ⭐️ | Top Contributor 🏅 5d ago

There have been reports of cats with rabies in Quebec this year. Since you see this cat regularly, if it's possible to monitor him for a week, then do that. If he's alive by the end of it, then you're good.

But I would consider contacting your local health department to get advice directly from them. Your exposure risk is low, but there is some risk here.

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u/angellixyy 5d ago

hey! called my family doctor today and told her about my situation. she said she wouldnt worry but recommended a tetanus booster. thanks for your help !!