Recent rabies-related fatalities in Kerala, including the deaths of three children despite vaccination, have raised alarms about lesser-known sources of infection—particularly pet cats. With 13 rabies deaths already recorded in the state this year (compared to 22 in all of 2024), experts are urging the public to take all potential sources seriously, including domesticated animals.
Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan of the Indian Medical Association emphasizes that in Kerala, many cats live semi-feral lifestyles. Unlike in Western countries where cats are often kept strictly indoors, cats here are commonly allowed to roam freely, making them vulnerable to rabies exposure. These community cats can travel long distances, interact with infected animals, and then return home. Due to their grooming habits—particularly licking their claws—rabies can reach their saliva and claws, making even a scratch a potential source of infection. When cats are aggressive due to hormonal changes or pregnancy, they may scratch unexpectedly, delivering the virus deep into human tissue.
Veterinary expert Dr. Soorej K adds that unlike dogs, sick cats often retreat and don’t exhibit obvious signs of illness, making it harder to identify if they are rabid. He stresses that all cat bites or scratches should be treated with the same urgency as dog bites. Rabies is a universal threat among mammals, and proper vaccination of both dogs and cats is crucial.
Previously, the experimental Milwaukee Protocol—where patients are placed in a coma and given antiviral treatments—was used as a last resort. However, due to severe neurological side effects and low success rates, it’s no longer advised. Today, the best defense remains immediate wound cleaning, timely rabies vaccination, and administration of rabies immunoglobulin.
