WINTER HAVEN. Fla. – Polk County has recorded its third rabies case of the year after a cat in Winter Haven tested positive for the virus. The incident occurred on Friday, July 19th, when a cat owner was bitten and scratched while separating his two cats during a fight. The cat responsible for the injuries was found deceased the following day.
The deceased cat was sent to the State Laboratory in Tampa, where it tested positive for rabies. The other cat involved, which was not vaccinated against rabies, was surrendered to Polk County Animal Control. The cat’s owner is receiving treatment for rabies exposure from the Florida Department of Health in Polk County.
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Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the importance of keeping pets vaccinated, stating, “Being vaccinated can save your pet’s life.”
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to avoid approaching any animal exhibiting unusual or suspicious behavior. If you suspect a potential rabies exposure for yourself or your pet, please contact the PCSO Animal Control Section at 863-577-1762.
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