Rabid kitten found in Thomasville

Feb. 20—THOMASVILLE — A kitten was confirmed Monday with Davidson County's third case of rabies in 2024.

A resident in the Fair Grove community of Thomasville reported finding several stray kittens, one of which was injured and needed urgent veterinary care, the Davidson County Health Department said. The kitten was surrendered to a local animal rescue organization.

Officials at the animal rescue organization reported the kitten's behavior changed over the next several days, including showing neurological symptoms, the health department said. The organization consulted a veterinarian, who recommended that the kitten be euthanized.

Lab results from the NC State Lab for Public Health showed that the kitten had rabies.

An investigation was done to identify any direct human exposure to the kitten, and all who had contact with it were sent for post-exposure treatment.

The kitten had also been quarantined from contact with other animals at the veterinary clinic.

The rabies virus is spread via the saliva of infected animals and can be transmitted by biting another animal or a person. If you suspect that your pet has come into contact with a potentially rabid animal, whether through a bite or saliva, seek veterinary care immediately as even vaccinated animals may require a booster.

The rabies virus is 100% fatal to mammals that are not vaccinated against it. North Carolina law requires that all domestic cats, dogs and ferrets receive the rabies vaccine by 4 months of age and be kept current.

For more information about rabies prevention visit www.cdc.gov/rabies/prevention/index.html.