07/25/2025
Let's talk about rabies.
I'm sure that many people have now heard about the recent case of a kitten testing positive for rabies in North Cowichan. There are many rumours flying around and misinformation being spread so we thought it was important to talk about the facts.
Yes, the sick kitten was caught by us and was in our care. She was carrying the rabies virus before we caught her and developed symptoms within a couple days of being caught. This has been a very sad and stressful experience for our small group of passionate and caring volunteers and we hope that people will show some compassion for the fact that an innocent little throwaway kitten lost her life in an awful way and that the people who loved her are heartbroken while also having to deal with a rare and scary disease. Please know that the entire situation is being dealt with appropriately, everyone involved is safe, and we are very grateful for the kindness and quick actions of all the professionals involved, including our amazing local VIHA nurses and the CDC provincial vet. We have received care and advice that has alleviated our concerns and we will move forward with a solid plan in place for the siblings of the sick kitten. Rabies is something to take very seriously but we don't need to panic when it's found in one animal. It is still very rare in animals other than bats in this area, and is found in less than one percent of bats. Just because one bat was known to have it does not automatically mean a bunch of bats in that area have it. If you have questions or concerns it is best that you contact the CDC or Public Health. They are the experts and they know the most current and up to date facts.
The sibling kittens do not have rabies symptoms and are receiving all the appropriate preventative vaccine treatments and are still in our care. We have a plan in place for them that was put together in cooperation with the CDC provincial vet. The only other option is euthanasia but there is no reason for that and it was not required or suggested by the CDC. Out of an abundance of caution this plan will include an extended quarantine as well as a unicorn of a foster home. If you have a big heart, no kids, and no pets, and are willing to help these three innocent kittens we would love to talk with you privately.
Please show kindness and compassion to all of our volunteers who have been involved and please vaccinate your cats and dogs for rabies, even if they live indoors only. I did not previously vaccinate all of our cats for rabies and always said, "what are the chances that our rescue would ever have to deal with such a rare disease?" I guarantee you that all cats who come through our care will now most definitely be vaccinated for rabies and I hope yours will be too.
RIP to our dear sweet little Bestie 💔
