The Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH) and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) are alerting the public that a stray calico cat that has been seen in the Route 102 (Victory Highway) area of Coventry and West Greenwich was caught and has tested positive for rabies.
Based on reports from the public, this cat had at least three kittens. Two of the kittens have been caught and will be tested for rabies. The mother cat did attack pets and humans on Wednesday.
HEALTH and DEM make the following recommendations:
· If you have been exposed to or been bitten by a stray cat or any other animal, contact HEALTH at 222-2577 (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.) or 272-5952 after hours. HEALTH is the only agency that can authorize the release of rabies vaccine. · Do not feed or handle any stray or wild animal. · Cover and secure any garbage that is outside. Trash can be a food source for stray or wild animals. · Make sure your pet(s) are up to date on their rabies vaccination. · If you think your pet may have been exposed to or bitten by one of these cats, contact your veterinarian and your city or town’s animal control officer.