Rabies alert: Cat sparks animal epidemic zone in Bangkok
Pet owners face strict rules as emergency animal health order issued
A rabid cat found in a Bangkok suburb has prompted officials to declare multiple areas epidemic zones to stop the spread of the deadly virus.
The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has declared multiple areas in and around the capital as temporary animal epidemic zones after a cat tested positive for rabies in Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani.
The announcement, made today, September 26, follows the discovery of the infected cat in Lat Sawai subdistrict, prompting swift action from veterinary and livestock officials to contain the spread of the deadly virus.
Pawinee Rungtonkij, director of the BMA’s Health Department, confirmed the alarming case and warned the public about the potential risk to both humans and animals. Rabies is highly contagious and can be fatal if left untreated, affecting not only cats and dogs but also cattle, buffaloes, and humans.
Under Section 20 of the Animal Epidemics Act, 2015, officials in Lam Luk Ka have declared a temporary animal epidemic zone, effective from September 25 to October 25. The affected zone spans several areas across Pathum Thani and Bangkok, including:
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North to Village 2, Bueng Yitho, Thanyaburi district
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South to Or Ngoen subdistrict, Sai Mai district, Bangkok
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East to Village 7, Bueng Kham Phroi
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West to Village 7, Khu Khot subdistrict, Lam Luk Ka district
Once an epidemic zone is declared, strict regulations come into effect. Pet owners are prohibited from moving dogs, cats, or animal carcasses in or out of the zone without written permission from the district veterinarian, reported KhaoSod.
If an animal is found sick or dead, it must be reported to officials, police, or local vets. Owners are banned from relocating or dissecting animal carcasses found in the area. Infected or dead animals must be left untouched at the site of death.
Non-compliance with veterinary orders may result in serious penalties, including up to two years in prison, a fine of 40,000 baht, or both.
Residents are urged to vaccinate pets, report suspicious animal behaviour, and cooperate fully with officials to prevent further spread.
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