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The cat was discovered in the Putnam County town of Putnam Valley in the area of Peekskill Hollow Road and Tinker Hill Road on Saturday, Feb. 3, the county's health department announced on Friday, Feb. 9.
After it was found, the unowned cat was safely taken to a veterinarian, where it began showing neurological signs of rabies.
After the cat was tested for the disease, a lab confirmed the positive result on Thursday, Feb. 8. It is the second incidence of rabies in Putnam Valley so far in 2024, officials said.
Anyone who came into contact with the cat should call the health department at 845-808-1390, or 845-808-1390 ext. 3 for those calling after 5 p.m. or on the weekend.
Health officials also urged the importance of keeping pets up to date on rabies vaccinations and avoiding contact with wild animals.
According to the department, animals who show strange behavior such as acting unusually aggressive or tame, excited, irritable, or lethargic may have rabies.
Those looking to vaccinate their pets can take advantage of the health department's free clinics, which are held three times a year. The next clinic is scheduled for Saturday, March 23 between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. at Veteran's Memorial Park in Carmel. The next two will be held in July and November.
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