PETERSBURG, Va. (WRIC) -- A cat tested positive for rabies in Petersburg, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) said on Friday. On Friday, Nov. 15, the VDH announced that an about 3-year-old multi-grey domestic short-haired cat found around Leefield Drive had tested positive for rabies. “Please notify public health officials or animal control immediately if you live near Leefield Drive and think you or your pet(s) had contact with the infected cat," said Crater Health District Director Alton Hart, Jr., in a press release. "The community’s safety is our priority. Make sure your pets are vaccinated, especially against rabies." To prevent your family and any pets from being exposed to rabies, the VDH recommends you take the following steps: Vaccinate any and all cats, dogs and ferrets against rabies. Keep those vaccines up to date. Avoid contact with stray and wild animals. Do not feed them. If you see a stray animal, report them to your local animal control agency. Eliminate outdoor food sources around your home. Keep your pets on your property. If taking them on a walk, put them on a leash. Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources providing tips for deer hunting season You can report stray or suspicious animals to Petersburg Animal Control at 804-732-3654. If you are concerned that you or a family member has been exposed to rabies, contact your healthcare provider immediately. “Rabies is a preventable disease," said Crater Health District environmental health manager Toinette Waldon in the release. "We encourage all pet owners to vaccinate their animals to protect them and the community." For more information on how to protect yourself from rabies, visit the Center for Disease Control's website or call 804-863-1652.