Feral Cat In Waterford Tests Positive For Rabies: Health Official

WATERFORD, CT — The health department said Friday that a feral cat that roams in the area of Spithead Road was tested and found to be positive for rabies. Officials from the Ledge Light Health District noted that people should not feed or approach any wild or stray animals.

In a public health alert, Ledge Light said "rabies is a deadly disease caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded animals, including people."

Rabies is spread mostly by wild animals, but stray or feral cats and dogs may also become infected and spread the virus. The rabies virus lives in the saliva and brain tissue of infected animals. Rabies can be spread by scratches from infected animals or when infected saliva comes into contact with open wounds, breaks in the skin or mucous membranes, like the eyes, nose, and mouth.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Ledge Light Health District at 860-448-4882 or the Waterford Animal Control at 860-442-9451.