SOUTH BRUNSWICK — A rabid cat was identified in the vicinity of Davidson Mill Road and Fresh Ponds Road on Dec. 22.
The South Brunswick Health Department is asking residents to make sure pets are adequately protected by licensing and vaccinating them against rabies.
Wild animals, particularly raccoons, foxes, skunks, groundhogs and bats, are most likely to be infected with rabies. Although raccoons are the most frequently infected animals in the current rabies outbreak, other animals are often bitten and infected by raccoons, according to the Health Department.
Wild animals with rabies do not always display signs of illness and can be perfectly healthy in appearance. Avoid all contact with bats, particularly sick or downed ones.
All bites and scratches from these animals should be washed out immediately and receive prompt medical attention. If possible, wild animals that have been exposed to humans or domestic animals should be captured and tested for rabies.
For more information on rabies visit www.sbtnj.net.