Can a rabid cat infect a non-rabid cat through mating, and is a dog-like bark a sign of rabies?

The rabies virus spreads through saliva, not through mating or blood. Saliva containing the virus enters the body through wounds or direct contact with mucous membranes, travels along nerves to the brain and damages the central nervous system.

A dog-like bark is not a symptom of rabies. During an outbreak the cat usually fears water and light, starting with lethargy, preference for dark, dull reactions and ignoring the owner.

It may eat strange objects, have difficulty swallowing, drool, show hind-limb weakness and dilated pupils. After slight recovery it may stand and rage again at minor stimuli, with a squinting gaze and self-biting of limbs and hindquarters.