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Why Does My Indoor Cat Need a Rabies Vaccine?

If you cat doesn't go outside, why do they need protection against rabies?

Lauren Smith, MAGhanasyam Bey, DVM
Written by Lauren Smith, MA | Reviewed by Ghanasyam Bey, DVM
Updated on April 10, 2025
Reviewed by Ghanasyam Bey, DVM | April 10, 2025

Dogs and outdoor cats have a risk of rabies infection, and they can then pass on the infection to humans. Vaccinating dogs and outdoor cats against rabies has greatly reduced the rates of rabies infection in humans. 

In this video, learn why even your indoor cat needs a rabies vaccine. In fact, it may even be required by law. 

References

American Animal Hospital Association. (2020). Core vaccines for pet cats.

American Animal Hospital Association. (2022). Key vaccination: rabies.

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Lauren Smith, MA
Written by:
Lauren Smith, MA
Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.
Ghanasyam Bey, DVM
Reviewed by:
Ghanasyam Bey, DVM
Ghanasyam Bey, DVM, is from Cleveland, Ohio, and attended Princeton University for undergraduate studies. After a year of biology research at Duke University, he attended Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine.

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