A small scratch from a cat isn’t your typical high-risk exposure for rabies, but it does raise some important considerations. Rabies is more commonly transmitted through bites rather than scratches, as it involves saliva entering a wound. If the cat isn’t a known rabies carrier or if it’s a domestic pet that’s vaccinated, the risk is considerably lower. However, because rabies is such a serious condition, when there’s uncertainty, prophylactic (preventative) treatment is often considered. So, having those first two shots is a pretty common precaution. Completing the rabies vaccination series after potential exposure is generally recommended to ensure full protection, especially if the cat’s vaccination status is unknown or if it shows unusual behavior. Fortunately, modern rabies vaccines are quite safe and don’t have severe side effects for most people. It’s possible to experience mild effects like soreness at the injection site or a low-grade fever, but these are generally manageable. Stopping the series without completing it could leave you partially at risk, so I would advise continuing with the guidance of your healthcare provider. They can assess the situation more thoroughly based on local rabies risk levels and the specifics of the incident. It’s crucial to weigh the potential minimal side effects of the vaccine against the severity and lethality of a rabies infection.
क्या मेरी उंगली पर छोटी सी बिल्ली की खरोंच के लिए रेबीज का टीका लगवाना सुरक्षित है?
मुझे एक बिल्ली ने खरोंच दिया और यह मेरे बीच की उंगली के साइड में एक सामान्य खरोंच जैसा था। मुझे रेबीज का डर है और मैंने 2 दिन बाद अपनी पहली 2 शॉट्स ले ली हैं। मैं अनावश्यक शॉट्स नहीं लेना चाहता, तो क्या कोई बता सकता है कि क्या यह ठीक है? यह कोई बड़ी खरोंच नहीं है, बस एक छोटी सी है। और अगर मैं इसके शॉट्स लेता भी हूँ, तो क्या इसके अनावश्यक उपयोग से कोई साइड इफेक्ट होगा और क्या इसे लेना सुरक्षित है?
How deep was the scratch from the cat?:
- Very shallow — just on the surfaceWhen did the scratch occur?:
- 1-3 days agoHas the scratch shown any signs of infection?:
- No signs — healing wellDid the cat that scratched you have any known health issues?:
- It was a stray catHave you received rabies shots before this incident?:
- Yes, but it's been a long timeHow do you feel about the risk of rabies from this scratch?:
- Somewhat concernedWhat other vaccinations have you received in the last year?:
- None100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Hello dear See as per clinical history It is not confirmed it there was salivary exposure of cat with you You are already vaccinated The wound seems superficial with absence of Fever Swelling Bleeding Infection So as per my clinical experience there is no need for vaccination. However please observe for 10 days for any abnormal symptoms. In summary chances of rabies are minute only Regards
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.