Cat Tests Positive For Rabies In East Brunswick

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ - A cat tested positive for rabies near the intersection of Dorothy Lane and Glover Road in the township, the Middlesex County Office of Health Services said Wednesday.

This is the eighth rabid animal reported in Middlesex County in 2025 and the second case in East Brunswick this year.

Health officials are continuing to monitor rabies cases throughout the municipality and urge residents to remain vigilant. Anyone who observes wild animals displaying unusual behavior should immediately contact the local police department.

Residents are advised to avoid all contact with wild animals and report any bites from wild or domestic animals to their local health department. Anyone bitten should also consult a physician as soon as possible.

Pet owners should ensure all family pets have current rabies vaccinations.

Rabies is caused by a virus that can infect all warm-blooded mammals, including humans. The virus is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal, typically through bites or potentially through contamination of open wounds.

New Jersey is considered endemic for raccoon and bat variants of rabies. Bats, skunks, groundhogs, foxes, cats, and dogs account for approximately 95 percent of animals diagnosed with rabies in the United States.

The Middlesex County Office of Health Services is advising residents to follow these guidelines in order to prevent rabies from being transmitted to themselves or their pets:

1. Immediately report a bite from a wild or domestic animal to your local health department. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water as soon as possible after the bite. Contamination of open cuts and scratches with saliva of potentially rabid animals should also be washed off immediately. Consult a physician as soon as possible.

2. Immediately report any wild animals showing signs of unusual behavior. Signs of unusual animal behavior could be that the animal may:

• Move slowly

• May act as if tame

• Appear sick

• Have problems swallowing

• Have an increase in saliva

• Have increased drooling

• Act aggressive

• Have difficulty moving

• Have paralysis

• Bite at everything if excited

Residents should avoid any contact with the animal and call your local animal control officer or local police department.

3. Be sure that all family pets are up to date on their rabies vaccination. If unsure, please call your veterinarian. Call your local health department for free rabies vaccination clinic availability.

4. Animal proof your home and yard. Make sure all garbage containers have tight fitting lids, do not leave pet food or water outside, do not allow rainwater to collect in outdoor containers or equipment and keep yard free of garbage and debris.

5. Do not feed or handle wild animals.

6. Avoid contact with stray animals or pets other than your own.

7. Try to prevent your pets from coming into contact with wild animals.

8. Screen off vents to attics and other areas that could provide shelter for bats

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