GILA COUNTY, AZ (AZFamily) — A bobcat in a remote area of Gila County tested positive for rabies last week, officials say.
The rabid animal was found in the Cherry Creek and Dagger Canyon area, which sits in central Gila County, north of Globe and east of Roosevelt Lake.
It was submitted to the Arizona State Laboratory for testing and came back positive for the rabies virus Friday, according to the Gila County Animal Care & Control.
Officials ask that residents of the nearby area who may have had contact with the bobcat, or whose pets may have been exposed, call Gila County Animal Care & Control right away at 928-402-8875.
What to look out for
Rabies is a viral disease most often transmitted through the bite of a rabid animal and affects animals differently, even within the same species.
Early signs of rabies can include unusual tiredness, fever, vomiting and loss of appetite, according to the Arizona Department of Health Services.
As the disease gets worse, an animal may become confused, stumble or have trouble walking, and develop tremors or seizures. It may also show weakness or paralysis, have trouble breathing or swallowing, drool heavily or foam at the mouth, and act aggressively.
Officials say that some animals bite or chew at themselves or behave in strange ways, including making unusual sounds.
Signs can be subtle or obvious, and death usually happens three to seven days after symptoms begin.
AZDHS has a manual for rabies control and animal bite management. More details about the disease can be found by clicking here.
Safety tips
Officials say the newest case is a reminder to be careful around wildlife.
Never approach, touch or try to handle wildlife that is acting strangely.Keep children and pets away from wild animals.Report wildlife that is acting unusually to your local animal control agency.Make sure all dogs and cats are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
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