BRUNSWICK COUNTY — A cat in Brunswick County tested positive for rabies.
The animal is suspected to have contracted rabies from an encounter with an unspecified wild animal the week of Nov. 2 in the southern central part of the county. The cat was injured, became ill and later attacked its owner. It was taken to the vet and euthanized. Not current on its vaccinations, the cat tested positive for rabies.
The cat’s owner is receiving the necessary rabies vaccinations following the incident.
As a result, Brunswick County Health Services reminds residents to stay aware and take precautions to protect themselves and pets from potentially rabid animals.
State law requires all owned dogs, cats and ferrets must be vaccinated against rabies by four months old and maintain current rabies vaccinations throughout the animal’s life. Pet owners should retain the original copy of the rabies vaccination certificate.
Steps you can take to protect yourself, loved ones and pets include:
- Supervise pets outdoors and keep all pets on a leash.
- Do not feed pets outdoors. Pet food attracts wildlife.
- Do not feed wildlife, feral cats or feral dogs.
- Secure garbage cans with wildlife-proof lids.
- Leave young wildlife alone. If you find a juvenile animal that appears to need help, it is best to leave it alone and call a wildlife professional.
In the U.S., rabies can be fatal if humans do not receive medical assistance. If bitten or scratched by any animal that could possibly have rabies:
- Clean the wound well with soap and running water for 15 minutes and contact your doctor. The doctor will determine if a series of rabies vaccinations will be needed.
- Note the location and a description of the animal to provide to animal control.
- Do not try to catch any wild animal that bites or scratches you. Call animal control immediately to capture the animal for rabies testing.
- If the animal is someone’s pet, get the owner’s name and address and provide them to the animal control officer. Any mammal can transmit rabies. The animal that bit you, depending on the species and circumstances, must be evaluated or tested for rabies.
Tips or comments? Email [email protected].
Want to read more from PCD? Subscribe now and then sign up for our morning newsletter, Wilmington Wire, and get the headlines delivered to your inbox every morning.
