Forsyth officials issue rabies alert

Georgia health officials warn Forsyth residents to stay away from feral cats.

Georgia health officials warn Forsyth residents to stay away from feral cats.

Georgia health officials and the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office are warning residents to be on guard after discovery of a rabid cat.

Georgia Department of Public Health District 2 officials said a south Forsyth resident rescued a stray kitten and was bitten by the animal, which later tested positive for rabies in a veterinary exam. That person is receiving treatment.

The sheriff’s office said the incident happened near Ga. 9 and McFarland Parkway, and they are warning residents in the area to keep tabs on their pets. They’re also asking anyone seeing oddly-acting animals to call them at 770-781-3087.

District heath officials said in a news release that feral cats born in the wild shouldn’t be treated like domestic animals and that no attempt should be made to capture or feed them. They said anyone finding one on their property should call animal control.