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Question

I have been feeding a feral cat for over two years. During the spring he let me touch him and finally he has decided to sit on my lap. A litter over a week ago I took him [against his will] to the Vet had everything he needed done to the tune of $450.   Sat. night he sat on my lap for at least 30 min's and when I put him down he sunk his teeth into my arm causing 4 deep puncture wounds.   Today he wanted petting but get mean acting and started hissing. What is going on, I had hoped he would advance to coming inside for the winter but now I know I can't trust him with my other cats or myself.

Submitted: 76 days and 9 hours ago.
Category: Cat
Value: $15
Status: CLOSED
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Optional Information

Pet's Sex: Male
Pet's Age: 3

Already Tried:
I touch and hold him gently and at first he did strike out at me but now seems more agressive.

Posted by Doc James 76 days and 9 hours ago.

Answer

Hi,

I'm sorry that this is going on.

I'd worry that perhaps he isn't feeling well from the vaccines, or is having a reaction to them. Or, this could be directed aggression that is secondary to the trip to the vet.

The key thing I always tell clients is that you have to feel safe with any pet in your household. If you don't, you cannot keep them.

If you can, and feel comfortable doing so, just feed and avoid him for the next week or so. If this is a reaction from the vaccines, he will feel better, and you may be able to return to normal activity. But, they can sense fear. If you are afraid of him, he may pick up on this and continue to be aggressive.

I'd leave him be, and see if he seeks attention and, if you feel safe, just advance a little at a time. Perhaps pretend that you are starting over with him. But, remember that this could be not feeling well, and it may not be an undoing of the progress you've made.

Let me know if I've answered this sufficiently.

James

76 days and 9 hours ago.

Reply

He had a rabies shot on 9/3/09 would that cover me for the bite . What if he had contacted a rabies animal just before the shot would it still be effective.

Posted by Doc James 76 days and 9 hours ago.

Answer

I would see your doctor, and I would call your vet. I've seen rabies cases where the shot only extends possible symptoms out longer they should be.

But, for your protection, you should consider getting the rabies shot. Unfortunately, there is no going back if it is rabies. There is no cure for you, so it is not something you take a risk with. Is he showing any aggression towards your other animals?

James

76 days and 9 hours ago.

Reply

My cats are all indoor cats so he only sees them in the window and doesn't seem to pay attention. It is just me.

Accepted Answer

Okay, if he doesn't come indoors, then they are not at risk. I'd still see your doctor, and recommend the rabies vaccine for you. It is better to be safe than sorry.

This probably isn't rabies, but you can't take that chance.

I'd still be more worried about trauma from the vet visit or not feeling well, but don't take an unnecessary risk.

James

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Expert: Doc James
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 9/7/2009

Cat Veterinarian

10 years small animal veterinarian, acupuncturist

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