NORTHAMPTON, MA (WGGB/WSHM) - A cat showing symptoms of rabies has been safely trapped and is now in Animal Control care, officials said Friday.

The cat was placed in quarantine and will remain under observation for further signs of rabies for the next several days, according to Northampton Animal Control.

On Thursday, the cat was found acting abnormally with symptoms consistent with the rabies virus. Animal Control and Northampton Police were unable to capture it but continued to try to locate it.

Animal Control thanked residents who reported helpful sightings and allowed traps to be placed in the neighborhood, as well as those who supported efforts remotely.

“We are extremely grateful. Not only to the residents who reported helpful sightings and allowed us to place traps in the neighborhood, but also to those who supported our efforts remotely,” Animal Control said in a statement. “Thank you to the Northampton Police Officers who diligently assisted us. We’re proud to be part of this team.”

Rabies is a serious disease and immediate consultation with medical staff is needed after possible exposure. Any person or pet who was exposed to the cat’s saliva through a bite, scratch, fresh wound, feeding or through exposure of cat saliva to their eyes or mouth may be considered exposed.

Anyone who had contact with the cat on or after April 16 was asked to contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health at 617-983-6800. Following an exposure to rabies, disease can be prevented with prompt administration of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis. People who did not have any contact with the cat are not at risk.