Coronavirus
I thought I’d share some thoughts about the coronavirus threat that is occupying the news now. I’m not convinced we’ll get accurate information as some deny there is a threat while others may tend to...
Forum Discussion
I have seen this story and it raises some disturbing possibilities. First, I've checked my veterinary sources and find no specifics on this particular story, BUT the message boards do show a number of questions regarding an uptick in the incidence of GI related illnesses in cats with possible COVID positive owners. This is just anecdotal questions, nothing found in tests.
This particular Bronx Zoo situation seems to be similar illness (respiratory) in a number of big cats. According to the story, the tiger was tested (requires general anesthesia to get nasal swab for the test) and turned up positive for the SARS-COV2 virus (covid-19). The disease was mild, cough and loss of appetite were the signs. It is thought that the zoo worker gave the virus to the cats, not the other way around.
This is disturbing information but until we know more my advice would be that if you feel sick or test postive for corona it would be wise to avoid contact with your cat. There still has not been information I've seen about dogs with corona other than the one in Hong Kong.
Dr. Doug
This particular Bronx Zoo situation seems to be similar illness (respiratory) in a number of big cats. According to the story, the tiger was tested (requires general anesthesia to get nasal swab for the test) and turned up positive for the SARS-COV2 virus (covid-19). The disease was mild, cough and loss of appetite were the signs. It is thought that the zoo worker gave the virus to the cats, not the other way around.
This is disturbing information but until we know more my advice would be that if you feel sick or test postive for corona it would be wise to avoid contact with your cat. There still has not been information I've seen about dogs with corona other than the one in Hong Kong.
Dr. Doug
