Rabid Cat Euthanized In East Bay

PLEASANTON, CA — An indoor cat in Pleasanton tested positive for rabies on June 29 and was euthanized, according to the Alameda County Public Health Department and Vector Control.

The cat was indoor-only, but may have been exposed to rabies by a bat on a balcony, the department said. Vector Control staff inspected the area for signs of roosting bats, but did not find any. Per public health protocol, the cat was humanely euthanized, and all exposed people received rabies prophylaxis. Local residents were also notified.

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The risk of rabies to the public is low, and no additional exposures or rabies cases have been identified. While cats are susceptible to rabies, they are rarely found to be infected in California. Rabies is detected more frequently in bats. Between 2019 and 2025, 27 bats tested positive for rabies in Alameda County, including in Berkeley in 2025 and in Fremont in 2026.

Rabies is a viral disease spread through the saliva of an infected animal. It attacks the central nervous system, causing brain inflammation and death. There is no cure, and it is fatal once clinical symptoms appear. It is preventable if post-exposure prophylaxis is administered before symptoms begin. California law requires dogs to be vaccinated, but it is strongly recommended that all cats, ferrets, and in some cases, livestock be vaccinated as well.

Valley Humane Society said that it is making sure that adoptable cats over three months old receive the rabies vaccine. Cats should receive booster shots every three years thereafter.

Most cases of rabies in domestic animals occur after contact with infected wildlife, particularly bats. Anyone who sees a cat or wild animal behaving strangely – appearing disoriented, unusually aggressive, unable to walk normally, or drooling excessively – should avoid the animal and call their local animal control agency immediately.

Here are some other tips from Alameda County:

• Vaccinate all dogs and cats against rabies
• Keep dogs confined to your property, especially puppies under 3 months
• Report animal bites of humans
• Avoid feeding or handling wild animals, even if they appear sick or injured
• Remove outdoor pet food, which can attract skunks and other wildlife
• Eliminate hiding spots by clearing trash, woodpiles, dense vegetation, and hollow logs
• Bat-proof your home by sealing any openings larger than ¼ inch, especially near the roof. Use ¼ inch mesh to screen attic vents and keep them well-maintained.

SEE ALSO:

• Rabid Bat Found In East Bay City
• Rabies Confirmed In Bat Found In San Mateo County