Cat with rabies found in Reisterstown: Officials warn of possible human exposure

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — A cat found in Reisterstown tested positive for rabies, and Baltimore County Animal Services (BCAS) has identified one potential human exposure, officials announced Tuesday.

The Baltimore County Department of Health and Human Services reported that the cat, described as a domestic short-haired tortoiseshell, was located in the Dover Road area and tested positive for rabies on April 2, 2026.

Officials urge anyone who may have come into contact with the cat to seek immediate medical attention and contact the Baltimore County Department of Health.

So far this year, six animals have tested positive for rabies in Baltimore County: one cat, one fox, and four raccoons. In the same period last year, a total of eight animals tested positive, which included one fox and seven raccoons.

ALSO READ | Baltimore County Animal Services hosts spring rabies vaccination clinics for pets

Baltimore County law requires that pet dogs, cats, and ferrets be vaccinated against rabies and that their vaccinations be up to date.

To help residents, BCAS is hosting a low-cost spring rabies vaccination clinic on April 25.

The cost for vaccinations is $9 per pet and includes a free microchip, lifetime registration, and an initial Baltimore County pet license (if applicable).

This clinic is open to dogs, cats, and ferrets that are at least 12-weeks-old.

For more information about the vaccination clinic, call 10-887-PAWS (7297) or visit Rabies Vaccination Clinics | Baltimore County Government.

To further reduce the risk of rabies transmission, residents can follow these guidelines provided by the Department of Health and Human Services:

• Avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar domestic animals.
• Keep pets on a leash and do not allow them to roam freely.
• Do not leave pet food or water outdoors for extended periods—especially overnight—as this may attract wildlife.
• Consult a veterinarian before taking in stray or feral animals, particularly in households with children, older adults, immunocompromised individuals, or other pets.
• Baltimore County Animal Services also encourages participation in its Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) program for community cats. The program requires that all colony cats be sterilized, vaccinated against rabies and FVRCP, ear-tipped, and microchipped. Maintaining vaccinated community cat populations is critical to protecting public health.

For more information on animal services in Baltimore County, you can visit the Animal Services | Baltimore County Government website.