This post has been sponsored by Merial, a world-leading animal health company, providing a comprehensive range of products to enhance the health and well-being of pets, but all opinions are my own.
Rabies
Did you know in 2013, an average of 500 domestic animals within the United States contract the rabies virus, and cats accounted for more than half of these cases?1 The U.S. is full of cat lovers. U.S. households own more than 85.8 million cats, making them a more plentiful pet than dogs.2 The goal is to keep all our beloved pets safe, happy, and healthy.
Given the population of cats within the United States, vaccination is the responsible action to protect the life of your cat. Even indoor cats can be exposed to a rabies infection.
World Rabies Day
Launched in 2007, the Global Alliance for Rabies Control, World Rabies Day is a global health observance to raise awareness about rabies and increase prevention efforts. The theme for 2015 is Let’s End Rabies Together.
Rabies is still a global issue. In recognition of World Rabies Day, Merial, the maker of PUREVAX® Feline Rabies vaccines, is encouraging cat owners to ensure that their cats are currently vaccinated against rabies infection (if overdue, now is the perfect time to make an appointment to see the veterinarian).
What is rabies?
I remember hearing about rabies for the first time as a little kid and being told to stay away from stray animals unless I wanted 30 shots in the belly. Back then that was enough to scare me away. But now, especially as a cat owner, it’s important to know more about the dangerous virus.
Rabies is a viral disease that causes severe inflammation in the brain and spinal chord of mammals. Rabies can be spread via bites by infected animals. There is no cure or treatment, and infection is fatal.
The Vaccine
PUREVAX Feline Rabies vaccines are highly effective and proven in cats, including kittens as young as 12 weeks of age. They are the only rabies vaccines that protect without the need for adjuvants — vaccine additives that may present potential risks to feline patients such as injection site reactions and chronic inflammation.3,4
PUREVAX Pure Protection Program – Play a fun, educational game
Merial created Feline Defense, an interactive game, to educate cat owners about rabies prevention. Cat owners can also find a local vet on the site.
Has your cat been vaccinated?
Disclosure: Merial partnered with bloggers like me for the PUREVAX Pure Protection program. As part of this program, I received compensation for my time. Merial believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words.