Rabid Cat Found in Glen Burnie

Glen Burnie, MD — Anne Arundel County Department of Health officials are seeking anyone who may have recently come in contact with a cat found hear Hamlen Road in Glen Burnie.

The grey and black tiger-striped domestic shorthair tabby cat was found Thursday in the Munroe Gardens community. Authorities say the cat tested positive for rabies.

Anyone who had contact with a stray, wild or unfamiliar cat in that area should call the Anne Arundel County Department of Health immediately at 410-222-7256, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., and 443-481-3140 after business hours.

Residents whose pet was bitten or scratched by a cat should call County Animal Control at 410-222-8900.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a cat, raccoon, fox or bat. It is also spread when the infected animal’s saliva comes in contact with the eyes, nose, mouth or open cut of a person or another animal.

Preventive treatment might be required for anyone who handled or fed the cat. Rabies is a fatal disease, and vaccines must be started as soon as possible.

The Department of Health urges county residents not to feed stray or wild animals or leave food dishes outside. Pet owners should also keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations current.

For online information about rabies, visit www.aahealth.org. To get a free fact sheet on rabies, call 410-222-7256.