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Is a rabies shot needed for a cat scratch post-vaccination?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had four rabies shots recently because of a cat scratch. Today, a cat playfully bit me near the knee. There was no blood, no wound, just a slight bump on the skin and slight marks of her teeth. Should I get another rabies shot, or is it alright? The cat is from my neighborhood and is not aggressive. She visits me often.

Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

If you are in a rabies vaccination period of less than one year since the last vaccine shot, then there is no requirement for another vaccination. But if you have crossed this period, then you need post-exposure prophylaxis, which means three more shots may be required.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My last rabies shot was taken a month ago. This was my fourth shot of rabies.

Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

That will be fine. No rabies vaccination is required. If a tetanus shot is not taken that time then you can take this time.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At December 27, 2023
Reviewed AtFebruary 17, 2026

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