Rabid cat found in Middletown

A child was scratched by a rabid cat in Middletown over the weekend. That cat was killed by a dog in the area of East Bay Village.

The cat is described as medium sized, black, short haired, with kittens living in a feral colony. After being killed by a dog, the cat was brought to the State Health Laboratory where it was tested positive for rabies. The dog was properly vaccinated.

Both the dog and the child are now undergoing preventive treatment.

After the news spread of the child that was scratched, one neighbor ABC 6 News caught up with fears his family may have been attacked by the same cat.

"On the fourth of July we were taking our dog out for a walk, my fiancé and her cousin. And,  it ended up turning out there was a stray cat that that ended up running and trying to attack,” said Andrew Martel. "It ended up actually scratching my fiancé's cousin's foot. And it was pretty vicious from what they described."

The State Veterinarian tells ABC 6 News that the kittens that cat had have a high likelihood of having rabies. The chance there could be more rabid cats around the neighborhood has many, especially parents on edge.

"It does cause some concern because my son is crazy. He'll touch any animal. And I'm always trying to teach him to respect people's space, their bubble. It doesn't always work,” said Teresa Mello.

Anyone in the area who has come in contact with this cat or any feral cats should call HEALTH immediately (401-222-2577, Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; 401-272-5952). Owners of any pets that may have come in contact with this cat or any other feral cats should call Middletown Animal Control at 401-846-1144 extension 7101 during business hours or the Middletown Police Department at 401-846-1144 after hours.

(C) WLNE – TV 2015