Rabies alert issued after infected cat found in Katonah

KATONAH, N.Y. - A cat in Katonah has tested positive for rabies.

Westchester County Department of Health officials are urging anyone who may have been bitten or scratched by the animal – described as an average-sized tabby cat – “through Monday, May 5” to call its 24-hour public health information line at 914- 813-5000 “as soon as possible to be evaluated for preventive rabies treatment.”

The cat was an unvaccinated pet that roamed outdoors and wore a collar.

They did not offer specifics, such as where the animal had been located, but said that two people who came in contact with the cat are being treated to prevent rabies.

Health officials want to determine if anyone else was exposed to the virus, which can be deadly.

“Rabies is fatal, but can be prevented with post-exposure treatment prior to onset of symptoms,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler.

PRECAUTIONS TO TAKE

Folks were advised to steer clear of wild animals and strays and to call police if they see an injured or sick animal.

They should also teach their children not to approach or handle animals they don’t know, “even if they appear young, injured, or friendly” and to tell an adult right away if they’ve been bitten or scratched.

It’s also important to keep a pet’s rabies vaccinations up to day and to “bat proof” your home.

To discourage wildlife from visiting your yard, secure trash cans and keep pet food and water indoors.

SIGNS OF RABIES

Unusual behavior may be the first sign of rabies in an animal.

A rabid animal may become either abnormally aggressive or unusually tame. It may lose its fear of people and become excited and irritable, or appear particularly passive and lethargic.

Staggering and frothing at the mouth are also signs of rabies.

REPORTING PROTOCOLS

Any physical contact with a wild or unfamiliar animal should be reported to a healthcare provider.

All animal bites or contact with animals suspected of having rabies must be reported to the County Health Department.

New York State law requires dogs, cats and ferrets to be vaccinated against rabies and receive regular booster shots.

For more information, go to www.westchestergov.com/health or call the RABIES INFOLINE at (914) 813-5010.