All About COVID-19 and Cats

COVID-19 has impacted lots of lives this year, including the lives of your cats. To help you understand how to manage the challenges that coronavirus presents to cat owners, we’re going to cover some of the most frequently asked questions.

If you’re wondering how to keep your cats entertained while you work from home or whether your kitty can catch the virus, we’ve got you covered.

Can Cats Get COVID-19?

Since you love your feline family member, you’re likely wondering if they are susceptible to COVID-19.

According to the CDC, domestic cats can become infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. Before you worry, know that only a small number of pet cats have become infected with the virus. Additionally, cats that become infected will likely experience a full recovery.

Symptoms of COVID-19 in cats are mild and include minor upper respiratory distress as well as upset stomachs. It’s important to note that these symptoms have other causes that are more common in cats.

Can Cats Get Coronavirus from Humans?

While there isn’t much research on the transmission of COVID-19 between humans and cats, experts believe that humans can transmit COVID-19 to domestic cats. Scientists also believe that COVID-19 can pass between cats.

If you do become infected with COVID, it’s best to limit your interactions with your cats. Even if you want to snuggle them when you are sick, look out for their interests and keep your distance. It’s especially important to keep your cats away from your face. So, wait until you recover to receive kitty kisses.

Another best practice is to wash your hands before feeding or petting your cat. The more handwashing the better!

Can Humans Get COVID-19 from Cats?

No! There is no evidence that COVID-19 can pass from cats to humans. So, if your cat does become infected with the coronavirus, there is no need to isolate or rehome them. However, it is a good idea to isolate an infected cat from other cats.

How Do I Keep my Cat Happy While Working From Home?

If you’re working from home, it’s easy to become distracted by your cat. Especially if they’re crawling on your keyboard or loudly meowing during phone calls. While we wish we could interact with our cats when they want our attention, sometimes work doesn’t allow this.

The truth is that quarantine is stressful for cats as well as humans. To help make working from home a pleasant experience for you and your cat, follow these tips.

Meet Their Basic Needs

Before you start working for the day, make sure your cat has access to all it needs. Clean the litter box, check the water bowl, and stick to a feeding routine.

Stick to a Routine

When you first start working from home, cats and humans alike will need some time to get used to the change. While this is expected, try to set a new routine and stick to it.

Aim to feed your cat at the same time each day and try to take breaks during similar hours. If you take a break from work each morning at 10:30 to play with your cat, they will come to expect this.

Provide Toys

If you have a playful cat, provide them with ways to occupy themselves during the day. Toys that require humans are great for bonding, but make sure to provide other toys that your cat can play with by themselves. As you probably know, each cat has a type of toy that they like, so find a toy that works for your kitty.

If your cat doesn’t play with toys on their own, consider a robotic toy. Sure, it doesn’t replace a human, but a moving toy may encourage your cat to play.

Offer a Cozy Sleeping Spot

Even if your cat normally sleeps on your bed when you’re away, they might seek out a new spot while you’re home. If your cat wants to be in your company, provide a cozy sleeping spot in the room where you are working.

Bring their favorite cat tower into your home office or buy a new bed or hammock they can sleep in.

It’s also important to provide your cat with a quiet place they can retreat to during the day.

Enjoy Time with Your Cat

Let’s admit it, spending more time with our kitties is one of the best parts of working from home. When you are able to take a break from work, spend some time playing or cuddling with your cat.

Even if you provide an amazing environment for your cat, sometimes all they want is attention. If your cat is meowing at your feet or making biscuits on your lap, take five minutes to enjoy their company.

How Should Cat Owners Prepare for COVID-19?

If you get sick, it’s important that you focus on your own health. Having a plan in place for your cat makes it easier to care for yourself.

In case you have to quarantine at home, it’s a good idea to have a month’s supply of cat food, cat litter, feline medications, and anything else you need. That way, you’ll have everything you need to take care of your cat.

It’s also good practice to have a copy of your cat’s medical records on file. Provide these records to an emergency contact that will take care of your cat in the case you can no longer do so.

Enjoy Time with Your Cat

Even if the COVID-19 pandemic has altered our lives and added a bit of stress, we’re still able to spend time with our cats. Now that you know a bit more about how to deal with coronavirus and cats, all that’s left to do is enjoy time with your cat.