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The coronavirus pandemic is a global danger right now, and people around the world look for ways to keep themselves and their closed ones safe and healthy. The easiest way to protect ourselves from the virus is to know exactly how it spreads. That’s why there are so many concerns about pets or animals in general. Especially the outdoor cat owners wonder if their cats can bring the disease home. Are you one of these people? Or maybe you worry that you will catch the disease and show no symptoms, but you may pass it on to your beloved cat? Here you will find all the necessary information about the coronavirus and cats.

Do animals carry the disease?

People started to worry when the first cases of infected animals appeared. There were two cats reported to be suffering from the coronavirus, later a dog, ferrets, and even a tiger in the Bronx ZOO in New York. Some people worry that animals can pass it on to humans; others fear that the virus can put in danger the already endangered species and our vulnerable friends. And while it’s not clear how animals can pass the virus on to each other, there isn’t any evidence that they can infect people, says the animal virus researcher from the University of California.

That’s why we should stay cautious and responsible, especially when it comes to wild animals. We should avoid any unnecessary contact, as long as we’re not sure if we can pass the disease on to an animal, not the other way around. Scientists are especially worried about endangered species and those that are genetically close to us, like apes.

Can cats get infected?

According to the very early research conducted by the Harbin Veterinary Research Institute in China, cats can get infected with COVID-19, and they can pass it to other cats. However, dogs are not as susceptible as cats, plus, it’s not likely that a cat can spread the disease to people. Scientists highlight the fact that the research was conducted in the lab where animals were given a significant dosage of the virus (SARS-CoV-2) directly, which can’t really be compared to everyday interactions cats have with their owners, other people and animals. Experts emphasize that the ability to harbor the virus doesn’t equal the possibility of spreading the disease. 

Are animals in danger?

Despite these several cases of infected animals, humans remain the most vulnerable victims and the most likely carriers of the virus. However, scientists agree that, if we want to protect the animals, it’s vital to understand how the disease can spread among them, and why some are more susceptible than others.

It’s been months since the coronavirus outbreak, and we have only had several cases of infected animals – we’d know if there were more, especially that these were all pets of people who got infected. 

So the most at risk are the cats of people who got sick and stayed home, exposing their pets to larger amounts of viral particles. However, while research shows that contraction is possible, it is not very likely. Scientists studied a group of cats that spent several weeks with several infected people, and they all tested negative for the coronavirus. What’s interesting, researchers are finding antibodies against the coronavirus in some felines, mainly in Wuhan, China. It suggests that they have had encountered the disease before.

How can you protect your cat?

Just like in the case of people, it’s important to boost your cat’s immune system. If the lockdown doesn’t prevent you from regular trips to the veterinarian, make sure to schedule a checkup for your furry friend. Apart from that, keep an eye on what your cat eats. The right diet is essential for staying healthy and strong (visit Sheba – PetFoodReviews.Online to find the best cat food that will provide your cat with all the necessary nutrients). You can also consider adding some probiotics or supplements, but only if your veterinarian thinks it’s required.

If you suspect that you may be sick, you can take all the necessary precautions, including staying away from both people and animals. After all, a pet is just another family member, so treat them as such if you’re self-isolating. And if you have an outdoor cat, it may be a good idea to familiarize him with the indoors more to avoid unnecessary contact with strangers.

Don’t lose your head

Sadly, there were lots of cases of scared pet owners getting rid of their dogs and cats, fearing the spread of the coronavirus. The whole situation is undoubtedly scary and uncertain, but that’s why we should remember to stick together, both with humans and animals. You won’t get the coronavirus from your cat, but you can surely get a lot of love, warmth, and support, which also is essential in times like these