Cat rabies in Ancaster, Rabies-infected cat bites man

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A cat bit a man in rural Ancaster this week and was found to have rabies. It’s the first time in 20 years a domestic animal in Hamilton has tested positive for the disease. Since 2015, 157 animals have tested positive for rabies in the city. In the last month there have been 15 cases.

The sick cat was taken to the Caledonia Veterinary Clinic Tuesday night and was put down.

“Ideally what they want to do is stay away from wild animals. I know when they’re sick we know people want to help but the best thing to do is call animal services instead of trying to help yourself.” said Dr. Jessica Hopkins.

Tests are being done to determine if a raccoon gave rabies to the cat.

The man received treatment for rabies and is expected to be fine but it’s a very deadly disease even for humans.

“If someone is not previously vaccinated or does not receive post exposure treatment and catch rabies it is fatal.” said Hopkins.

If you are bitten by any animal, wash the wound out immediately with water and go to the hospital.

Dr. Michael Mogavero guesses that a large population of Hamilton cats are at risk of catching rabies.

“I think that there’s probably 40-50% of cats in Hamilton not properly vaccinated against rabies.”

He says every cat should be given the rabies vaccine yearly, especially outdoor cats.

“Of all the pets we have you’re most likely to be exposed to rabies from your outdoor cat because they are the most unsupervised pet your dog outside is for the most part supervised”