Oh no!  Always be careful if you see what you think is a stay cat.  My daughter found a kitten away at college and of course, had to nurse it back to health and keep it but that is not always the outcome. Animal control is in place for a reason, and some residents of Pine Acres now know that all too well.

A cat went wild and attacked several people in Pine Acres Manor last week and unfortunately, it tested positive for rabies according to Manchester police.

If you have been in contact with this or any other animal acting strangely you should call the Health Department right away.  I was shocked to learn that even if you were in contact with the infected animal’s saliva you need to seek attention. The phone number in Ocean County for the Health Department is 732-341-9700.

Sadly, the cat did die, but at least they were able to test it. Once they got confirmation about the positive diagnosis of rabies, everyone at least knew the correct course of action to take.

Of course, acting fast is the key when you even think an animal is rabid.  You can read more about the signs that an animal is rabid in The Patch here.

Photo credit: Unsplash Cedric
Photo credit: Unsplash Cedric
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Of course, it is super-important to get your animals vaccinated. I just happened to go yesterday and it is so easy to forget.

If you see an unfamiliar animal do not approach it. Make sure to report any odd animal behavior to Animal Control.  I hope those attacked are treated and doing OK, it is such an important reminder for us all.

Not all pets are allowed here even if they are vaccinated.  Here is a list of pets banned in each state.

LOOK: Here are the pets banned in each state

Because the regulation of exotic animals is left to states, some organizations, including The Humane Society of the United States, advocate for federal, standardized legislation that would ban owning large cats, bears, primates, and large poisonous snakes as pets.

Read on to see which pets are banned in your home state, as well as across the nation.

10 Exotic Animals That Are Legal To Own In New Jersey

Who woulda thought?

 

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