Rabid Cat Attacks 3 Manalapan Residents

The and Western Monmouth Animal Control are alerting residents about an outdoor stray cat that tested positive for rabies on July 25. The black and white cat, which was found in the area of Atrium Way and Chestnut Way off of Pension Road, bit three residents on two separate occasions on Wednesday, July 25.

The cat was captured and sent out to be tested for rabies; the positive results came back on July 27. The people who were bitten by the cat have now begun a rabies post-exposure prophylaxis treatment.

Anyone who has come into contact with this stray cat is advised to call the Manalapan Health Department, located within the . Also, if a pet has come into contact with the feline please get in touch with your veterinarian, the Health Department advises.

According to Manalapan Health Department Director David Richardson, the incident of the rabid cat is not related to a hat was recently discovered in the township.

Please be on the lookout for any other animals or cats that may be acting strangely. Unusual behavior in animals is generally defined as aggresive tendencies, a sick appearance, or a very lethargic or passive behavior, according to the Health Department. Any observances of peculiar functioning in animals should be reported to the Manalapan Health Department at 732-446-8345, or the after normal working hours or on the weekends at 732-446-4300.

The Health Department wants to take this opportunity to remind residents that all of their domestic pets should be properly vaccinated against the rabies virus.