There is a constant stigma around wild Louisville animals. “Be careful, or you’ll get rabies.” It seems that this phrase is said all the time about all animals in nature. However, not all animals carry rabies or can pass it on.



There are some Kentucky animals more likely to carry the virus than others. Most of the animals known to transmit the rabies virus are skunks, bats, raccoons, coyotes, and foxes. Most of these animals are nocturnal. So, if you see them out during the day, it is a good idea to exercise caution.

There are two different types of rabies, though both are equally dangerous. The first type is called furious rabies. Animals that have furious rabies may be aggressive or easily agitated with objects or other animals. They have also been known to gnaw off parts of their bodies—such as limbs—in some cases. Another notable sign and probably the most popular is the foaming of the mouth and excessive drool.

Another type of rabies is known as dumb rabies. Louisville animals showing these signs are often lethargic and appear to be calm. They pay little attention to other animals or what’s going on around them. Like furious rabies, dumb rabies can also have foaming at the mouth.

Bats are the most commonly noted to have dumb rabies. They are typically found on the ground during the day because the virus has them disoriented and confused. This impairment keeps them from being able to fly.

There is one animal that people often think has rabies. Can you guess which animal that is? If you said opossum, you would be correct. For years people have considered opossums as carriers of the virus. However, it is actually rare for opossums to carry the virus. They often look like they might have rabies, but is just their natural defense mechanism. They can foam at the mouth, act lethargic, and act aggressively to protect themselves.

The chances of the Kentucky opossum carrying the virus are slim to none. This is because their body temperature is lower than most mammals. The rabies virus must have a host with a higher body temp to maintain. Reptiles, amphibians, birds, and fish body temperatures are much cooler than those of mammals.

Other animals that never carry rabies are Louisville squirrels, rabbits, and rats. The reason is that their bodies are just too small.

Mammals are the only Kentucky animals that can carry the rabies virus. Other animals such as fish, turtles, snakes, and birds do not pose a threat. If you suspect that an animal you’ve seen has rabies, contact Louisville animal control immediately. A rabid animal can cause a lot of damage if not taken care of immediately, especially to humans and domestic animals. I

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