Rising Cases of ‘Rabbit Fever’ Among Cats in Minnesota: Health Department Alerts Public of Increased Risk and Importance of Seeking Medical Attention

The Minnesota Department of Health and Board of Animal Health are currently monitoring a surge in tularemia cases among animals across the state, with cats being the most susceptible to the disease. Epidemiologist Maria Bye explains that tularemia, also known as “rabbit fever,” can affect over 250 animal species, but cats are particularly vulnerable due to their weakened immune systems.

Tularemia can cause cats to experience high fevers, extreme weakness, loss of appetite, and the development of ulcers on their mouth or skin. In many cases, it leads to death. Dogs and humans can also become infected through a tick or fly bite or by coming into contact with an infected animal. While an average of seven animal cases are reported annually, there were 21 cases reported in 2023 and seven have already been reported in 2024.

Health officials urge individuals who may have come into contact with an infected animal to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as fever, skin wounds or ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, headaches, chills, joint and muscle pain, and nausea. Symptoms typically manifest three to five days after exposure but can appear as soon as the following day or up to 14 days later.