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Rabid cat attacks dog & owner in Niagara County

Posted at 8:30 PM, Jul 19, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-20 19:06:53-04

Health Officials in Niagara County are asking anyone who may have come into contact with this white, grey and black cat to contact them immediately. The cat, they say, tested positive for rabies.

Health officials say the animal attacked Patricia Rogowski and her dog back on July 13th, on Demler Road in the Wheatfield, North Tonawanda area. The cat has since been euthanized; meanwhile, Rogowski is now undergoing treatment to prevent rabies infection.

According to county officials, the cat was the first positive case of rabies reported in a domesticated animal in Niagara County since 2010.

Rabies is an incurable, deadly disease that attacks the central nervous system. Health Department Officials say the best preventive measures are vaccinations and airing on the side of caution when encountering wild animals.

Anyone with questions or concerns is urged to call the Niagara County Department of Health Environmental Division at 716-439-7444.  Calls made after business hours will be routed to the Niagara County Sheriff's public health officer.