Rabid Cat Confirmed in Stafford

A case of rabies has been confirmed in Stafford County, the sheriff's office said.

A resident from the 700 block of Brooke Road brought a stray cat to the Stafford County Animal Shelter on July 12, reporting the cat had bitten a family member, Stafford Sheriff's Office spokesman Bill Kennedy said.  The cat was placed in quarantine and a bite report was sent to the Health Department. 

"The cat was found deceased in the quarantine room on July 15," Kennedy said. The cat tested positive for rabies.

"To this date, the same resident has turned in eight additional cats which are now quarantined," Kennedy said.  "Animal Control Officers have set traps to catch the three remaining cats from the feral colony," he said.

Citizens are reminded to not approach or try to catch stray or wild animals, Kennedy said.  This message should be shared with children, especially during the summer vacation period.

Animal owners should always maintain the appropriate vaccinations for their animals and, if possible, keep animals confined to the premises to avoid the threat of rabies.

Follow Fredericksburg Patch for the latest news and events.
Facebook | Twitter