{"id":17379,"date":"2026-02-11T20:23:09","date_gmt":"2026-02-12T01:23:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/?page_id=17379"},"modified":"2026-02-11T20:23:35","modified_gmt":"2026-02-12T01:23:35","slug":"cat-tests-positive-for-rabies-in-suffolk","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/news\/public-relations-contacts\/2026-regional-news-releases\/cat-tests-positive-for-rabies-in-suffolk\/","title":{"rendered":"Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk"},"content":{"rendered":"

February 11, 2026
\nMedia Contact<\/strong>: Joseph Everett, Environmental Health Supervisor
\n757-514-4751<\/p>\n

Cat Tests Positive for Rabies in Suffolk<\/strong><\/p>\n

SUFFOLK, Va. – The Suffolk Health Department is alerting the public that a cat tested positive for rabies. The cat was taken from the 100 block of Robertson Street in the Whaleyville area of Suffolk to a veterinary clinic for evaluation. Due to the extent of its symptoms and health condition, the cat was humanely euthanized and tested for rabies.<\/p>\n

Rabies is a fatal disease, but it can be prevented. The most common way people are exposed to rabies is when an infected animal bites or scratches them.\u00a0 \u00a0The infected animal\u2019s saliva enters the body through an open wound or mucous membrane. Prompt evaluation and complete treatment are critical.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately, there is no cure for rabies. Without preventive treatment, once symptoms develop, the disease is fatal in nearly 100% of cases. \u00a0Rabies is also fatal in infected domestic dogs and cats that have not been vaccinated.<\/p>\n

Rabies is highly preventable if the vaccine is given early.<\/p>\n

Angela Tillery, health director for the Western Tidewater Health District, strongly recommends Suffolk residents protect their families and pets from rabies.<\/p>\n