Stray Cat in Cranbury Tests Positive for Rabies

Middlesex County Office of Health Services is asking residents to report animals who show signs of unusual behavior after a stray cat in Cranbury tested positive for rabies on May 17, making it the third rabid animal in the county in 2012. 

The cat was brought to a resident’s house in Cranbury after it was found coming out of the woods in Burlington Township in Burlington County, according to a news release. It was later brought to the Sayreville Pet Adoption Center and the cat was sent to the state’s Department of Health laboratory for testing on May 15.

Seven people had contact with the stray cat between the two counties, and all have been advised to speak with a physician. Rabies can be transmitted by a bite or contamination of an open cut.

The county said residents should report wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior to a local Animal Control Officer.

Unusual behavior in an anmial can include:

• Moving slowly
• May act as if it is tame
• Appears sick
• Have problems swallowing
• Have an increase of saliva
• Have increased drooling
• Acts aggressive
• Have difficulty moving
• Have paralysis
• Bites at everything if excited

Other rabies prevention guidelines from the county include:

1. Immediately report a bite from a wild or domestic animal to your local health department. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible after the bite. Contamination of open cuts or scratches with saliva of potentially rabid animals should also be washed off immediately. Consult a physician as soon as possible.
2. Immediately report any wild animal showing signs of unusual behavior. Residents should avoid any contact with the animal and call your local animal control officer or local police department.
3. Be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccination.  If unsure please call your veterinarian. Call your local health department for free rabies vaccination clinic availability.
4. Animal proof your home and yard. Make sure all garbage containers have tight fitting lids, do not leave pet food or water outside, do not allow rainwater to collect in outdoor containers or equipment and keep yard free of garbage and debris.
5. Do not feed or handle wild animals.
6. Avoid contact with stray animals or pets other than your own.
7. Try to prevent your pets from coming into contact with wild animals.
8. Screen off vents to attics and other areas that could provide shelter for bats.

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