10/07/2026
A bat in the house can be more than an unexpected visitor—especially when you have curious pets.
Bats can get indoors through surprisingly small openings, and sometimes your dog or cat may find one before you do. If that happens, it can be difficult to know whether your pet was bitten or had other contact with the bat.
Because bats can carry rabies, any possible exposure should be taken seriously. Keep your pet away from the bat, don’t handle the bat with bare hands, and contact your veterinarian and local health department promptly for guidance. Don’t release or dispose of the bat unless you’re instructed to do so, as it may need to be tested for rabies.
Keeping your pet’s rabies vaccination current is one of the most important ways to protect them—even if you have an indoor cat.
Not sure if your pet is current on their rabies vaccine, or concerned about a possible bat encounter? Call Pleasant Valley Animal Hospital at 845-635-2110. We’re happy to help.