Health Officials Warn of Spike in Cat-Related Rabies Cases in Sri Lanka

Health officials in Sri Lanka have reported a notable increase in rabies cases linked to cats.

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, as recent data show that the majority of rabies infections last year were caused by household pets rather than stray dogs.

Rabies, a deadly viral disease, can be transmitted through bites or scratches from infected animals such as dogs, cats, bats, foxes, mongooses, squirrels, and livestock, according to government sources.

Each year, Sri Lanka records approximately 250,000 to 300,000 dog-bite incidents.

Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana, Consultant Community Physician at the Ministry of Health’s Epidemiology Unit, noted that lab tests on animal brain samples point to a significant rise in rabies among cats.

Dr. Liyanapathirana highlighted that cat-related injuries have increased, especially in the Colombo and Gampaha districts, emphasizing that scratches can be just as risky as bites.

Officials are advising anyone bitten or scratched by an animal to seek immediate medical care and ensure their pets receive proper vaccination.