The Cecil County Health Department has received confirmation that a feral cat near the Best Western hotel in North East (39 Elwoods Road, North East, MD 21901) has tested positive for rabies. The cat was picked up by Cecil County Animal Services on Saturday, August 10th, 2024 on the Best Western’s premises following reports of the animal becoming aggressive. The cat was described as a small to medium sized, brown and white, female tabby.

Although this cat was found at the Best Western hotel, it may have exposed other people and pets in the surrounding area. If you or your pets have had contact with a stray or feral cat (kittens included) at the Best Western hotel or in the surrounding area between July 29, 2024 and August 13, 2024, please contact the Cecil County Health Department at 410-996-5100 immediately for follow up.

Rabies is spread by the bite or scratch of an infected animal, such as a groundhog, cat, fox, raccoon, skunk 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 may be required for anyone who handled, fed or was attacked by the infected animal. Rabies is a fatal disease, and preventive treatment must be started as soon as possible.

Incidents such as this reinforce that rabies is present in Cecil County and that stray animals can be dangerous. Cats pose a more significant risk of contracting rabies than dogs because they cover large areas when hunting and are more likely to have an encounter with a rabid wild animal that goes unnoticed. The Cecil County Health Department advises county residents to take the following precautions to prevent the spread of rabies:

● All cats, dogs and ferrets should have current rabies immunizations.
● Do not allow your pets to run free.
● Cover all trash cans and do not leave pet food outside.
● Avoid contact with all wildlife, especially feral cats, raccoons, bats, and foxes.
● If bitten or scratched by a suspected rabid animal, wash the wound immediately with soap and water, and seek medical attention.