A stray cat picked up in the Deer Lake area later tested positive for rabies. Anyone who may have been in contact with the cat should immediately contact a health care provider, animal experts advise.
According to a Facebook post by Save the Strays, on Thursday a volunteer responded to the area due to a report about a sick or injured cat. The cat bit a good samaritan who was trying to help as well as the volunteer.
The caged cat became increasingly more aggressive. It was taken to Ringtown Valley Vet Hospital Saturday, where it was evaluated, humanely euthanized, and sent to the state Dept. of Health for testing.
The Dept. of Health reported Tuesday that the cat tested positive for rabies. The cat was white with gray markings.
The rabies virus is spread by saliva. Residents in the Deer Lake area should keep an eye on outdoor pets, especially if they may have shared a food bowl.
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