Rabid Cat Injuries Man Near Cypress Landing
October 20, 2026
Media Contact: Kimi Stevens, kimi.stevens@vdh.virginia.gov
Rabid Cat Injuries Man Near Cypress Landing
CHESAPEAKE, Va. – On October 14, a man sustained facial and hand injuries while attempting to feed a feral cat behind Cypress Landing Apartments, 40 Knells Ridge Blvd., in Chesapeake. Testing confirmed the cat to be rabies-positive. The exposed individual is currently undergoing medical treatment for his injuries.
Rabies is commonly found in wild animals, such as raccoons, skunks, and foxes. Wild animals can also spread rabies to unvaccinated feral and domestic pets and livestock. The Virginia Department of Health has seen an increase in positive rabies cases in the Eastern Region this year. If your pet is attacked or bitten by an animal, call Chesapeake Non-Emergency Dispatch. 757-382-6161.
Rabies illness symptoms in animals include abnormal behavior, difficulty swallowing, poor balance, paralysis, and seizures. Once any mammal becomes ill with rabies, progression to death typically occurs rapidly.
Post-exposure rabies treatment for individuals is given after a potential bite, scratch, or contact with saliva of a rabid animal. Treatment is 100 % effective when started promptly. If left untreated in humans, rabies is 100% fatal.
“We understand that many residents have good intentions when feeding or caring for stray animals, but these interactions can come with health risks including rabies,” said Derek Hunt, environmental health manager. “Even healthy-looking animals can transmit diseases. Direct contact is best left to a professional animal service provider such as Chesapeake Animal Services or a certified animal rescue organization.”
Virginia law requires all dogs and cats four months of age and older to be vaccinated for rabies by a licensed veterinarian. Vaccinations must be kept current.
To protect yourself and your animals from rabies:
- Do not attempt to touch or capture a stray animal. Report sick or injured animals to Chesapeake Non-Emergency Dispatch. 757-382-6161.
- Do not feed wildlife or feral animals.
- Teach children to avoid contact with wild animals and unfamiliar pets.
- Feed your pets indoors and do not let them wander.
If you are bitten by a wild or stray animal, do not panic. Wash animal bite wounds thoroughly with soap and water to decrease the chance of infection. Contact your healthcare provider or the Chesapeake Health Department for further recommendations.
For more information about rabies, visit the Virginia Department of Health Rabies Control web page. www.vdh.virginia.gov/animal-contact-human-health/rabies-control/
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