Frederick County Health Department: Rabid Cat Found In Thurmont

It was located on Christmas Day.Frederick, Md (KM) The Frederick County Health Department says a cat found in Thurmont last week tested positive for rabies. The feline was taken by Animal Control Officers on December 25th in the 100 block of East Moser Road. Officials say the cat was euthanized because of unexplained wounds and displaying multiple symptoms of rabies.The Health Department says the cat is a tortoiseshell female about two to three years of age with no collar, no spay scar and no ear tip.Anyone who has had contact with this cat between December 11th, 2024, and December 25th, 2024, is asked consult with their health care provider and contact the Community Health Services Office which is part of the County Health Department. The number to call is 301-600-3342If their pets or livestock have had contact with this cat, residents are asked to call their veterinarian, and contact the County Health Department’s Environmental Health Office. at 301-600-1717.The Health Department says rabies is a viral disease which infects mammals, and is spread through the saliva of an infected animal, usually by a bite. Symptoms of rabies in animals can include fear of water, excessive salivation, failure to eat or drink, limping, or unusually friendly or unusually aggressive behavior.Rabies us nearly always fatal to humans once they’re infected unless post-exposure treatment is given.”Mammals can be infected with the rabies virus so do not touch or play with unknown animals, and make sure your pets are vaccinated,”: says Barry Glotfelty, the Director of the Health Department’s Environmental Health Services, in a statement.By Kevin McManus