The Fairfax County Health Department has confirmed a case of rabies in a domestic shorthair cat. The cat was found near the intersection of 13th and H Street in the Belle Haven neighborhood of Alexandria. Residents who had contact with the cat between November 20 and November 28, 2025, should contact the Fairfax County Health Department Rabies Program. The cat is an orange and white male with a tipped ear. It attacked several people and pets on November 28. Health officials are concerned about possible additional exposures.
The cat has been captured. Officials are trying to identify anyone who may have been bitten, scratched, or exposed to the cat during the infectious period. Rabies is a viral disease that affects wild and domestic animals, including dogs and cats. The virus spreads through bites, scratches, or contact with infected saliva or tissue on open wounds or mucous membranes.
In 2025, there have been 32 confirmed rabies cases in animals in Fairfax County. Rabies can be hard to detect early because animals may not show symptoms. As the disease progresses, animals may act unusually, such as showing aggression or being unusually calm. Physical signs can include staggering or drooling…