Polk County Man Attacked by Rabid Cat

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The third case of rabies in Polk County this year has been confirmed in Winter Haven, according to a press release issued by the Polk County Sheriff's Office. This news comes after we recently reported that rabies cases in Florida this year have already surpassed all of last year's.

On Friday, July 19, 2024, Polk County Sheriff's Animal Control Officers responded to a call for service on Avenue T NW in Winter Haven after a report of a cat owner being scratched and bitten while breaking up a fight between his two cats. The cat that bit and scratched him was found by the man deceased the next day.

The deceased cat was sent to the State Laboratory in Tampa, where it tested positive for rabies. The other cat was not vaccinated against rabies, and it was surrendered by its owner to Polk County Animal Control. The Florida Department of Health in Polk County will handle the treatment of the owner for his rabies exposure.

“Please make sure your pets are up to date on all their vaccines; being vaccinated can save your pet's life," said Grady Judd, Sheriff, in the release.

Please do not approach any animal which is acting in an unusual or suspicious manner. If you think you or your pet has had an "exposure," please contact the PCSO Animal Control Section at 863.577.1762.