Rabid cat found in North Providence

NORTH PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- Rhode Island environmental officials say a cat infected with rabies may have come into contact with humans and other animals in North Providence before it died.

The state Department of Environmental Management and the Department of Health say the cat roamed the neighborhood around Central Avenue before it died. It is described as an adult gray short-haired cat with tiger stripes.

State veterinarian Scott Marshall says this case of rabies is considered high risk because the cat spent time outdoors and may have come into contact with people or other pets.

Anyone who may have been exposed is asked to call the health department for evaluation and treatment. Residents who think their pet was exposed should call North Providence Animal Shelter and Animal Control at 719-1516.