Turkey is unique in that it is the only European country in which the principal vector for rabies is the domestic dog (Canis familiaris) rather than the fox (Vulpes vulpes).Over 70% of cases are recorded in dogs, followed by cats and ruminants[1, 2]. Occasional cases in wildlife species have been recorded.


Do Turkish stray cats have rabies?

Turkey is unique in that it is the only European country in which the principal vector for rabies is the domestic dog (Canis familiaris) rather than the fox (Vulpes vulpes). Over 70% of cases are recorded in dogs, followed by cats and ruminants [1, 2]. Occasional cases in wildlife species have been recorded.

What to do if you get scratched by a cat in Turkey?

Although stray cats can be a vector for rabies, out of all 21 rabies cases in Turkey documented between 2000 and 2014, none were through a contact between cats and humans. Public feeding of cats by the locals has been criticized by several veterinarians.

Can you touch the cat in Turkey?

If you're scratched by a cat, it's important to clean the wound promptly with soap and warm water to decrease your risk of developing an infection. You can also add an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and cover it with a bandage.

How common is rabies from cats?

İstanbul is the Capital City of Cats. Yes you can pet them.

How common is rabies in Turkey?

Cats rarely contract rabies, let alone spread it. In fact, there has not been a single confirmed case of a human contracting rabies from a cat in the U.S. in decades. Furthermore, the rabies virus itself is not nearly the threat it once was in the United States.

Do I need a rabies shot after a stray cat bite?

Approximately 180,000 rabies risk-posing animal contacts are reported; and 1-2 human rabies cases are seen annually in Turkey.

Are cats in Turkey vaccinated?

People who have been bitten and have not previously been vaccinated for rabies should receive immunoglobulin (antibody) promptly, followed by a series of vaccines. Those previously vaccinated do not require immunoglobulin but will still receive several vaccines against the virus.

What are the first signs of rabies in a cat?

The Turkish government and local community groups also work to vaccinate, neuter, and spay these stray cats. This all seems oddly selfless on the part of the Turks.

Should I be worried if a stray cat scratched me?

Behavioral changes can include sudden loss of appetite, signs of apprehension or nervousness, irritability, and hyperexcitability. The animal may seek solitude, or an otherwise unfriendly animal may become friendly. Uncharacteristic aggressiveness can develop; a normally calm and obedient animal may become vicious.

Why are cats treated so well in turkey?

Whether the bite is from a family pet or an animal in the wild, scratches and bites can carry disease. Cat scratches, even from a kitten, can carry "cat scratch disease," a bacterial infection. Other animals can transmit rabies and tetanus. Bites that break the skin are even more likely to become infected.

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