Health authorities have reported a significant increase in rabies transmission linked to cats in Sri Lanka, with most infections recorded last year attributed to household pets rather than stray dogs.

According to the Ministry of Health, rabies, a nearly always fatal viral disease, can spread through bites or scratches from infected animals including dogs, cats, bats, mongooses, cattle and horses.

Consultant Community Physician Dr. Athula Liyanapathirana of the Epidemiology Unit stated that laboratory testing of animal brain samples shows a noticeable rise in rabies among cats. He noted a surge in cat bites, particularly in the Colombo and Gampaha districts, warning that even scratches can transmit the virus.

Sri Lanka records approximately 250,000 to 300,000 dog-bite cases annually.

Authorities are urging the public to seek immediate medical care following any animal bite or scratch and to ensure pets are properly vaccinated against rabies.