Can Pigs Carry Rabies?
Yes — pigs can get rabies, but it is rare. Swine are infected by the bite of a rabid wild animal. When it occurs, pigs may show sudden aggression, excessive salivation, muscle twitching, or weakness. Because swine rabies is uncommon, it is often not suspected early (CDC, AVMA).
Rabies is genuinely rare in pigs; the main hazard is that rarity delays suspicion when it does occur.
Key facts about pigs and rabies
- Rabies is uncommon in swine compared with other livestock.
- Pigs are infected through bites from rabid wildlife.
- Reported signs include sudden aggression, excessive salivation, muscle twitching, and weakness.
- Because cases are rare, rabies is often not the first diagnosis considered, which can delay exposure management.
What to do after a pig bite or exposure
- Wash any bite or saliva exposure with soap and water for at least 15 minutes.
- If the pig showed sudden neurologic or behavioural change, contact public health for a risk assessment.
- Isolate the animal and call your veterinarian.
- Report suspected rabies to your state animal health authority.
Frequently asked questions
Can pigs get rabies?
Yes, but it is rare. Pigs catch rabies from bites by rabid wildlife and may show sudden aggression, drooling, or twitching. Because swine rabies is uncommon it is easily overlooked, so report any sudden neurologic change and seek a risk assessment (CDC, AVMA).
Is rabies common in pigs?
No. Rabies is reported much less often in swine than in livestock like cattle and horses. It remains possible, so a bite from a pig behaving abnormally should still be evaluated.
Related animals
See the full animal rabies overview.
Sources
This page is for general education and reflects current CDC and WHO rabies guidance. It does not replace urgent medical or veterinary advice. If you may have been exposed to rabies, seek medical care promptly.