WINTER HAVEN, Fla. — A cat has been confirmed as the third case of rabies in Polk County this year, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. The incident occurred on Avenue T NW in Winter Haven.
On Friday, animal control officers responded to a report of a cat owner who had been scratched and bitten while intervening in a fight between his two cats. The cat that inflicted the injuries was found dead the following day. Subsequent tests conducted at the state laboratory in Tampa confirmed that the deceased cat had rabies.
The other cat involved in the altercation was not vaccinated against rabies and has been surrendered to Polk County Animal Control. The Florida Department of Health in Polk County will oversee the rabies exposure treatment for the injured owner.
Sheriff Grady Judd emphasized the importance of keeping pets up-to-date on their vaccinations: “Please make sure your pets are up-to-date on all their vaccines; being vaccinated can save your pet’s life.”
The sheriff’s office urges residents not to approach animals displaying unusual or suspicious behavior. If you suspect you or your pet have been exposed to rabies, contact the PCSO Animal Control Section at 863-577-1762 for guidance.
