Rabid Feral Kitten Found, Euthanized In Somerset County

FRANKLIN, NJ — Authorities are warning residents that a feral kitten found in Franklin Township has tested positive for rabies.

On Dec. 10, a family on Charles Street took in a sick feral kitten before bringing it to the Franklin Township Animal Shelter on Dec. 15, according to Somerset County Department of Health.

"The shelter immediately brought the kitten to the Easton Animal Clinic where it was examined and euthanized. The animal was sent to the New Jersey Department of Health where it tested positive for rabies," said Somerset County Department of Health.

Anyone who may have been in contact with this grey and white kitten that was about 4 months old is encouraged to contact their health care provider.

The Health Department is advising residents to avoid any wild, feral or unfamiliar animals acting strangely and to immediately call their local police department or animal control. Feeding of wild animals or animals that you do not own is strongly discouraged, because of the risk of rabies.

"If you are bitten or attacked by an animal, do not delay in reporting it to health authorities," said Somerset County Health Officer Dr. Namitha Reddy. "Rabies is a serious illness that without treatment can be fatal in humans."

Report any incident of animal bites to the police and local health department as soon as possible. Contact information for local Health Departments in Somerset County can be found at bit.ly/HealthDepts.

For more information about rabies, visit the New Jersey Department of Health website at nj.gov/health/cd/topics/rabies.shtml.

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