MONTREAL: Raccoon rabies is spreading alarmingly in Quebec, with authorities issuing warnings as the infection continues to reach domestic pets. A third case of raccoon rabies has been confirmed in a cat in the province this year.
The infection was detected on September 25 in a cat in the town of Saint-Denis-sur-Richelieu, located in the Montérégie region. Provincial officials stated that both the cat’s owner and a veterinarian who came into contact with the animal received prompt preventive treatment. According to the government’s latest figures, a total of 313 confirmed cases of raccoon rabies have been recorded across Quebec this year.
Two previous cases in cats were reported in late June. Michael Libman, a professor in the division of infectious diseases at McGill University, noted that while people in Quebec typically vaccinate their cats, seeing continuous rabies infections in felines is unusual. He added that this raises concerns about a potential drop in public awareness regarding the vital need to vaccinate pets.
Libman reminded the public that rabies is not limited to raccoons and can affect any mammal, including dogs, goats, and cows. He warned that rabid animals become more aggressive and prone to biting, urging vigilance and special care with children, who are more likely to approach animals closely.
Raccoon rabies began re-emerging in Quebec around 2024. To curb the spread, the government has implemented various control measures, including vaccine distribution and “trap-vaccinate-release” operations. The Quebec Ministry of Agriculture also announced that low-cost pet vaccination clinics will remain operational through late November to help residents protect their animals.
