Recent Rabies Case in Domestic Cat Prompts Action at Valley Humane Society

Vaccinations Recommended to Protect Pets from Increased Rabies Risk Due to Growing Bat Population

PLEASANTON, California–July 29, 2026–A growing bat population in Alameda County over the past few years has led to an increased risk of rabies for local pets. Now, with the recent case discovered in a domestic cat in Pleasanton, Valley Humane Society is recommending all cats and dogs be vaccinated against the disease.

California state law requires that dogs be vaccinated against rabies, but cats have no requirement. Due to the heightened exposure, however, Valley Humane is making sure adoptable cats over 3 months old receive the rabies vaccine to help protect pets and people in our community.

Rabies is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly through a bite. It is a viral disease that attacks the central nervous system, causing brain inflammation and death. There is no cure for rabies, though the vaccines available for pets and people will help build antibodies that fight the virus. As with most vaccinations, pets must receive a booster regularly to keep their protection up to date.

While rare, rabies does exist in wildlife throughout California. Cats are more likely to encounter bats because of their hunting skills, and since it is not uncommon for bats to enter a home, even indoor cats can be affected. Bat bites are often very tiny and difficult to identify, so if you think you or your pet have come in contact with a bat, seek treatment immediately.

Getting treatment after suspected exposure is critical. If you or your animal are bitten or scratched by any unfamiliar animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and contact your veterinarian or healthcare provider right away. Treatment is available that can proactively stop the illness from forming, but once symptoms start, there is no cure for people or animals with rabies.

Simply living near cats or seeing them in the neighborhood does not put people at risk for rabies. Most cases of rabies in domestic cats occur after contact with infected wildlife, particularly bats. If you see a cat or wild animal behaving strangely—appearing disoriented, unusually aggressive, unable to walk normally, or drooling excessively—do not approach or handle the animal. Instead, call your local animal control agency.

In the United States, rabies in people is extremely rare thanks to routine pet vaccinations programs and prompt medical treatment after exposure. By working together to vaccinate our pets, avoid contact with wildlife, and report animals displaying abnormal behavior or serious illness, we can help protect both animals and people.

Take the time to discuss rabies vaccinations with your veterinarian. If your pet needs a vaccine or booster, Valley Humane Society offers low-cost rabies vaccinations at our Phil Scholz Veterinary Surgery Center, located at 120 Spring Street in Pleasanton. Visit www.valleyhumane.org/surgery-center for more information.