#Middlebury #Cats #coronavirus #COVID19
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I’m staying inside during this emergency, as the state government has requested, but I still let my tomcat, Dodger, out during the day. He would go crazy being stuck inside. However, my daughter told me to stop letting him out, because she says pets can get coronavirus, too. Is Dodger in danger? Could he get it and spread it to me? – Darlene B., Springfield, Massachusetts
DEAR DARLENE: Currently, no pets within the U.S. are known to have contracted the coronavirus. A tiger at the Bronx Zoo reportedly tested positive for COVID-19 (and six more tigers are showing symptoms). But there’s very little data to work with right now.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not have definitive evidence that pets can contract COVID-19, they are playing it safe and urging owners to protect their pets from exposure to the virus. So you should, too.
You don’t know where Dodger goes when he’s out, so you don’t know if he is being exposed to this virus or other viruses or bacteria that are much more easily contracted and can cause serious illness. Keep him inside and find ways to keep him from losing his mind. That includes spending more time playing with him, making sure he has plenty of toys, and giving him scratching and climbing spots, plus a hideaway. If his behavior gets worse, contact the veterinarian – Dodger may need to take medication to calm him down for the short term.
Also, because he’s been outside, you need to take precautions for yourself. Wash your hands after petting or picking up Dodger, and after cleaning his litter box. Wash his food and water bowls daily in hot soapy water. Here’s to both of you staying healthy and safe!
Send your tips, comments or questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.
You must be logged in to post a comment.