Officials are investigating after a rabid animal was found in Parkville last week.
Baltimore County Councilman David Marks said on Monday that the Baltimore County Department of Health confirmed that it recovered a laboratory-confirmed rabid cat from 2nd Avenue on Thursday, August 18.
The recovered cat was a white and brown tabby.
If you, anyone you know or your pet had any direct exposure (bites, scratches, or licks) to this cat, please contact the Baltimore County Department of Health immediately at 410-887-5963. Additionally, contact your medical provider for treatment.
Due to the dangerous nature of rabies, the Department is reminding citizens of the potential dangers of feeding stray or feral cats. It is recommended that all pets get micro-chipped and wear the license on their collar.
Rabies Prevention Tips:
• Everyone should consider the risk of rabies and other diseases before taking in or interacting with any animal, especially if their home contains children, persons with certain illnesses, elderly, or other pets.
• Persons considering adopting stray or feral cats should speak with a veterinarian for guidance. Contact your doctor and the local health department if you are bitten or scratched by a stray or feral cat.
• Since rabies remains uncontrolled in the wild, avoid contact with wildlife as well as stray or feral animals, especially if they appear to be sick. There is no risk-free contact with these animals with regard to physical injury, rabies and other diseases.
• Do not provide food, water or shelter to wildlife or strays. For pets that are fed outdoors, do not leave food or water bowls out for extended periods, especially overnight. Contain garbage in tightly covered containers.
• Keep your pet’s rabies vaccinations up-to-date. Do not allow pets (even cats) to freely roam the neighborhood.
Baltimore County Animal Services provides low-cost rabies vaccinations and spay/neutering.
For information on getting your pet micro-chipped, licensed, and vaccinated against rabies, call 410-887-PAWS (7297).
