Cat Tests Positive For Rabies In Parsippany

PARSIPPANY, NJ — A cat off Baldwin Road tested positive for rabies, township officials announced Thursday.

"Rabies is a fatal disease of warm-blooded mammals caused by a virus, most frequently spread through a bite or scratch from an infected animal," said the township's advisory notice. "An infected animal has the rabies virus in its saliva and infects other animals or people through bites and contact with saliva. Once infected animals become ill, they may bite or attack other animals or people."

Common carriers of the virus include raccoons, skunks, foxes, woodchucks, bats and feral (stray) cats.

The township advised the public to stay away from wild animals and animals you don't know. Don't feed stray animals, and don't make pets of wild animals, officials said.

Officials also said to keep garbage in a container with a tight-fitting lid to prevent attracting animals. Clean up spilled birdseed, and don't leave pet food out for extended time periods.

"Be certain that your dog is properly licensed, vaccinated and up to date on their rabies vaccination," the township said. "If you know of any stray cats, or dogs or any other animal in the area acting strangely, please contact the Parsippany Animal Control at 973-263-7083."

If you're exposed — bitten or scratched — by any suspected animal, act promptly. Immediately wash the wound with soap and water, and call your physician and the health department. If your pet gets bitten or fights with a wild animal, contact the Parsippany Health Department at 973-263-7160, as well as your veterinarian.