A second cat in Saint-Anicet, Quebec, has been diagnosed with racoon rabies this summer, following a similar case in Godmanchester. Three individuals had to undergo preventive treatment after encountering the infected animal, according to Santé Québec Montérégie-Centre.
The recent incident emphasizes the importance of keeping pets’ vaccinations up to date due to the ongoing racoon rabies outbreak in the Estrie, Montérégie, and Centre-du-Québec regions. Public health authorities advise pet owners to supervise their animals when outdoors and to avoid contact with unfamiliar domestic or wild creatures, even if they appear unharmed or deceased.
In case of a potential rabies exposure, individuals are urged to wash the affected area thoroughly for 10 to 15 minutes and contact Info-Santé at 811 immediately. Prompt administration of preventative treatment is crucial to prevent the disease from progressing.
Animals infected with rabies may display various symptoms such as altered behavior, aggression, biting tendencies, isolation, decreased appetite, excessive salivation, or an unsteady gait. If a pet exhibits these signs, it should be isolated from other animals and humans and promptly examined by a veterinarian.
The Environment Ministry recently confirmed the first instance of racoon rabies in the Centre-du-Québec region. Residents of the Eastern Townships, Montérégie, and Centre-du-Québec are asked to report any dead, injured, disoriented, paralyzed, or unusually aggressive raccoons, skunks, or foxes through an online form. Those outside these areas can report potentially rabid wildlife by contacting the Environment Ministry at 1-877-346-6763.