The Oneida County Health Department says a rabid cat had to be euthanized after biting a person in Whitestown.

Officials say the cat was brought to a vet, but it was determined the cat was too sick to treat.  The cat was euthanized and tested positive for rabies.

The Health Department says signs to look for in rabid animals include staggering, convulsions, choking and frothing at the mouth.

Health department officials say there are things you can do to reduce the risks rabies for yourself, your family and,your pets:

  • Keep your pets’ rabies vaccinations up-to-date. Dogs, cats and ferrets 3-months and older   must be vaccinated. The Oneida County Health Department conducts a number of rabies clinics throughout the county.
  • Maintain control of your pets by keeping cats and ferrets indoors and keeping dogs under direct supervision.
  • Do not touch or feed wild or unknown animals
  • Do not touch dead or sick animals and warn children to avoid wild or strange animals
  • Walk your pet on a leash, and keep your pets indoors at night
  • Spay or neuter your pets to help reduce the number of unwanted pets that may not be properly cared for or vaccinated regularly.
  • Reduce your chances of contact by ‘animal proofing’ your property
  • Learn the signs of rabies in animals
  • Seek immediate medical attention if you have contact with an animal you think may be rabid
  • Call animal control to remove all stray animals from your neighborhood since these animals may be unvaccinated or ill.
  • Report all animal bites to the Health Department at-798-5064

The OCHD will be having a rabies clinic on May 12th at the Clark Mills Firehouse from 6:00 to 8:00.

For more information, visit ocgov.net.

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