The state department of health would like to remind Tennesseans that preventing exposure of people and their pets to the rabies virus is a priority, especially during this time of year. Tennessee law requires that all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies and their shots kept up-to-date. Although cases of rabies in cats in Tennessee are uncommon, there are twice as many rabid cats as dogs in the U.S. To further protect your pets, keep them confined to a controlled area to limit their exposure to wild animals.