Rabies or hydrophobia is a .......... disease.

The correct option is A Viral
Rabies is primarily a disease of carnivores like dogs, cats etc. The other name for the disease is hydrophobia. It is caused by Rabies virus (Rhabdovirus or Lyssavirus). The virus destroys the cells in the brain and spinal cord. It is characterised by the scarce of water in the victim (hydrophobia) and biting behaviours.

Thus, the correct answer is option 'viral'.