Rabies Vaccine Side Effects

There are side effects of the rabies vaccine to be aware of when vaccinating your dog or cat against the virus.

Side Effects in Dogs

There are some side effects that are considered normal when dogs are vaccinated for rabies. For a 24 period after the vaccine is administered, dogs may experience a decreased appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea. You may also notice
that your pet is slightly sluggish or sore. In the rare event that a dog develops hives or swelling in the face he/she is having an allergic reaction to the vaccine and may require medical attention.

Side Effects in Cats

Most cats do not have serious side effects to the rabies vaccine.  However, adverse effects have been reported.  These may include seizures, tissue damage, and loss of motor skills.  More serious side effects may include kidney and liver damage.  These side effects may appear as long as 45 days after vaccination.

In addition, a type of cancer called fibrosarcoma has been linked to certain vaccinations in cats, including an older rabies vaccine.  This tumor is believed to have been caused by a chemical in the vaccine.  The good news is that a newer rabies vaccine for cats is availablethat is not believed to be linked to this type of cancer.

Side Effects in Humans

There are several brands of rabies vaccine available in the United States and side effects may vary depending on the type of vaccine.

In general, for people receiving pre-exposure prophylaxis, the most commonly reported side effect was local pain at the injection site.  Also reported have been mild reactions such as redness, soreness, swelling, and itching at the injection site.  More general reactions such as headache, fever, dizziness, nausea, and muscle aches have been reported by some people receiving the vaccine.  Most reactions are mild and resolved on their own within a few days.  Serious reactions are rare.

Moderate reactions such as hives, joint pain, and an illness similar to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) that is temporary have been reported.

The rabies vaccine does not cause rabies.