How Can a Rat Get Rabies?

Rabies is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe illness. It can be spread from one animal to another and is a serious condition that can even cause death. Usually, symptoms of rabies begin several days after exposure, but in some cases, symptoms can occur weeks or months later. The virus multiplies rapidly in the brain of the infected animal and will then spread throughout the body. It causes neurological abnormalities and mental confusion, and death can occur within a few days.

The disease is more likely to be transmitted by mice and rats than from man to man. However, rat bites should be avoided, as rats have been known to bite when agitated or frightened. Their sharp jaws can break skin, making them a potential hazard. Infected rats may cause fever, which can be fatal if not treated promptly. The best way to prevent contracting these illnesses is to get your pet checked out by a veterinarian.

While small rodents can be carriers of the disease, rabies is rare in rodents. In fact, there have been no documented cases of rat transmission to humans. However, rabies can be passed from one animal to another through saliva.