Blanchfield: 'Cats' Still Dangerous Despite Injuries

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Post on Nov 01, 2024

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Blanchfield: 'Cats' Still Dangerous Despite Injuries

The recent incident involving a seriously injured cat in Fort Campbell has sparked concerns about the potential dangers of even injured animals. Dr. Jennifer Blanchfield, a veterinarian at Blanchfield Army Community Hospital (BACH), emphasizes the importance of treating injured animals with caution, as their instincts remain sharp despite their condition.

The Instincts Remain

"It's important to remember that even a severely injured animal can still be dangerous," Dr. Blanchfield explains. "Their fight or flight instincts are still very much intact, and they may lash out if they feel threatened."

The Case of the Injured Cat

The incident involving the injured cat in Fort Campbell highlights this point. The cat, found with significant injuries, exhibited aggressive behavior towards those attempting to help. This underscores the need for caution and expertise when dealing with injured animals.

Handling Injured Animals

Dr. Blanchfield offers the following advice for encountering an injured animal:

• Do not approach: Maintain a safe distance and observe the animal's behavior from afar.
• Call for help: Contact animal control or a wildlife rescue organization.
• Protect yourself: If you must approach, wear thick gloves and avoid sudden movements.

Importance of Professional Intervention

While it's natural to want to help an injured animal, attempting to capture or treat them without proper training and equipment can be dangerous.

• Animal control: Animal control officers are trained to safely handle injured animals and ensure their well-being.
• Wildlife rescue organizations: These organizations have the resources and expertise to rehabilitate injured wildlife.

Prevention and Awareness

Preventing encounters with injured animals is crucial. Here are some tips:

• Secure your garbage: Keep trash cans securely covered to avoid attracting stray animals.
• Keep pets on leashes: Always leash your pets in public areas to prevent them from encountering wildlife.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your environment and be alert for potential encounters with injured animals.

Remember: Even injured animals can be a danger. Always err on the side of caution and seek professional help when dealing with injured wildlife.