A cat which bit a dog and then the Roanoke Rapids animal control officer tested positive for rabies.

The animal control officer is receiving rabies treatment after he was bitten on the thumb by the cat when he was transferring the animal from one cage to another, the report filed February 25 says.

Halifax County Animal Control Officer Robert Richardson reported to Roanoke Rapids police Tuesday the cat did test positive for rabies and other animals at the house on 105 Madison Street — dogs and ferrets — were seized for observation.

Roanoke Rapids Deputy Police Chief Adam Bondarek said it is important for the public, especially those who live  in areas where houses are close together, there is heavy foot traffic and many children playing to be aware of unfamiliar animals or animals which may be acting strangely. “If you see an animal, domesticated or wild, do not approach it, do not touch it, do not mess with it.”

If the animal appears to be rabid call 911 or the police department.

The case remains under investigation and the people who live at the house were directed where to seek medical attention themselves.

More information on rabies and its detection can be found at the Centers for Disease Control’s website.