dealing with a batty catty

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khilovedogs

dealing with a batty catty

Post by khilovedogs »

my cat killed a bat and she hasnt had her shot for rabies yet. how high of a risk of getting does she have??
catty7
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Re: dealing with a batty catty

Post by catty7 »

khilovedogs wrote:my cat killed a bat and she hasnt had her shot for rabies yet. how high of a risk of getting does she have??
this is mine my name is catty7!!!!
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Traci
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Re: dealing with a batty catty

Post by Traci »

Call your vet immediately....if you still have the bat's body, handle it carefully, with gloves.....place it in a trash liner, seal it...take it into your vet for rabies testing. Tell your vet your kitty has not been vaccinated for rabies...he will probably suggest kitty is vaccinated ASAP.
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Re: dealing with a batty catty

Post by Tambrey »

Contrary to popular beliefe, it is very seldom that a person or animal is infected with rabies via contact with a bat...bats are awesome creatures and a welcome inhabitant in most organic gardens. I actually have a bat house and am in process of planning a bat garden, in hopes to draw more bats to my acreage...

I went and got this information directly from the Center for Disease Conrtol (CDC) site:
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvrd/rabies/b ... /bats&.htm

This information may also help clear up misunderstandings about bats.
When people think about bats, they often imagine things that are not true. Bats are not blind. They are neither rodents nor birds. They will not suck your blood -- and most do not have rabies. Bats play key roles in ecosystems around the globe, from rain forests to deserts, especially by eating insects, including agricultural pests. The best protection we can offer these unique mammals is to learn more about their habits and recognize the value of living safely with them.


How can I tell if a bat has rabies?
Rabies can be confirmed only in a laboratory. However, any bat that is active by day, is found in a place where bats are not usually seen (for example, in a room in your home or on the lawn), or is unable to fly, is far more likely than others to be rabid. Such bats are often the most easily approached. Therefore, it is best never to handle any bat.


What should I do if my pet is exposed to a bat?
If you think your pet or domestic animal has been bitten by a bat, contact a veterinarian or your health department for assistance immediately and have the bat tested for rabies. Remember to keep vaccinations current for cats, dogs, and other animals.


As Traci mentioned, it is most imparative that your cat see a vet and be vaccinated, and know what symptoms to watch for in your cat...however, it helps to also be informed about the creatures :)
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