KUCHING, SEPT 28: While dogs are typically associated with rabies transmission, Sarawak confronts an uncommon and notable issue, with a higher incidence of rabies in cats surpassing the global average.
President of the Sarawak Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA), Datin Dona Drury Wee, expressed her apprehension to the situation.
“In Sarawak, there have been more cases of rabies in cats than what’s typically seen worldwide.
“Some unusual instances were reported where people got rabies without being in contact with dogs but were bitten or scratched by their cats,” she told TVS during the launching of PM Veterinary Clinic here today.
She attributed the unique situation to Sarawak’s cultural context, where cats and dogs coexist harmoniously.
“In the local ‘kampong’ (village) setting, these animals are often not adversaries, as is common in Western scenarios.
“This calls for an urgent need to emphasize the importance of vaccinating both cats and dogs,” she added.
In addressing this pressing issue, Dona highlighted the ongoing collaborative effort between SSCPA and the state government.
“They’re (state government) offering free rabies vaccinations, and the vaccines themselves have been sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, the main supplier.
“This exemplifies their dedication to the welfare of our pets and our community,” said Dona.
Meanwhile, Director of the Department of Veterinary Services Sarawak, Dr. Adrian Susin Ambud, noted that rabies can enter the human body through bites, scratches, or open wounds from both dogs and cats.
“Similar to a dog bite, a cat’s bite can have the same effect when the animal is infected with rabies. This is why it’s crucial to keep your dog or cat indoors to prevent exposure to the rabies virus.
“However, there is always a chance that your pet may escape and become infected. Therefore, it’s imperative to vaccinate your pets against rabies. This is not only vital for your family’s safety but also for the well-being of your pets,” he said when contacted by TVS today.
He said for dogs, rabies vaccination is not only advisable but compulsory under the law.
“Failure to provide evidence of rabies vaccination can result in penalties of up to RM1,000,” stressed Dr. Adrian adding that the gravity of the situation, noting that once rabies symptoms appear, the disease is invariably fatal.
Previously, Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, expressed deep concerns regarding the consistently high number of daily animal bite cases in the state.
Despite significant development progress and a healthy population with an average life expectancy of 76.5 years, Sarawak remains threatened by diseases such as rabies and other zoonotic conditions, like monkey malaria and leptospirosis.
Since 2017, Sarawak has recorded 72 human rabies cases, resulting in a tragically high fatality rate of 90.3%, a situation that the Premier earnestly hopes will not worsen in the near future. – TVS
