CapeNature has urged residents and visitors to South African coastlines to keep a safe distance from Cape fur seals and to act immediately if they or their pets are bitten, scratched or exposed to a seal’s saliva. This comes as the world marks International Rabies Day on Monday, 28 September 2026.
According to the agency, rabies has been detected in Cape fur seals along the South African coastline and by the end of 2025 at least 176 people had reportedly been bitten by seals.
“While most seals do not pose a threat to people, they are wild animals and should never be approached, touched, fed or encouraged to interact with humans.”
Pet owners have also been urged to keep dogs and other pets away from seals, whether the seal appears healthy, sick, injured or dead. They are also encouraged to ensure that their dogs and cats have up-to-date rabies vaccinations.
According to the Western Cape Agriculture, Economic Development and Tourism Department’s 2025/26 Annual Report, veterinary teams administered 132 458 rabies vaccinations to dogs, cats, cattle and horses across the province during the past financial year at a value of more than R1.2 million.
Minister Dr Ivan Meyer says these vaccinations formed part of broader animal health interventions aimed at protecting livestock, companion animals and the public from diseases of economic and public health importance.
The Annual Report reportedly also notes that the Department has observed a strong link between the wellbeing of companion animals and the psychosocial wellbeing of communities. Meyer added that in many under-served areas, access to veterinary services is limited, making partnerships with animal welfare organisations an essential component of effective animal healthcare delivery.
The department added that this year’s theme, “Stronger Together”, highlights the importance of collaboration between governments, animal health professionals, communities, animal welfare organisations and pet owners in the shared mission to eliminate rabies.
“Dogs and cats are more than companion animals. They are valued members of many households and communities. Protecting them from rabies helps protect families, children and entire communities. We are grateful to the many animal welfare organisations, veterinarians, municipalities and community volunteers who partner with us in this important work.”
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