Rabid Cat Found in Ellicott City

Columbia, MD – The Howard County Health Department is seeking anyone who may have come into contact with a feral/stray cat in the area of the 8700 block on Baltimore National Pike in Ellicott City. A cat, which was found January 29, 2020, has tested positive for rabies. If you or a pet had contact with a stray/feral cat since January 15, 2020, or your pet has unexplained wounds, please call the Howard County Health Department at 410-313-1773 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or 410-915-0196 after business hours.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon or bat. It is also spread when an 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, fed or was attacked by the cat. Rabies is a fatal disease, and preventive treatment (injections) must be started as soon as possible. The Health Department advises county residents not to feed wild or stray animals or leave food dishes outside. Pet owners should also keep their animals’ rabies vaccinations current.

For more information about Rabies, visit: https://www.howardcountymd.gov/Departments/Health/Environmental-Health/Community-Hygiene/Rabies-Prevention