Stone Mountain cat tests positive for rabies, DeKalb County officials say

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - A cat has tested positive for rabies in the Stone Mountain area, DeKalb County officials said.

The animal was captured, euthanized, and later tested for rabies, they said.

It is unclear if the cat was infected by another animal.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals. When it enters the body, it causes inflammation of the nervous system and is almost always fatal. The disease can enter the body through open cuts, bites, or mucous membranes such as the eyes.

To report animals acting strangely, call your local animal control. To report an animal bite, call Georgia Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.