All you need to know about cats and Coronavirus

As a usually active voluntary run branch, we are all feeling quite helpless. But, we can still help remotley with welfare advice in these challenging times.

We have listed some frequently asked questions and our answers about coronavirus (COVID-19) and cats, writes Peterborough Cats Protection branch spokeswoman Sheridan Gaunt.

Can cats catch coronavirus (COVID-19)? Do I need to be worried about transmitting the illness to my cat?

A recent report in Belgium stated that a cat owned by a woman with coronavirus (COVID-19) developed symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea and breathing difficulties and a type of coronavirus was detected in the cat’s faeces and vomit. This might be the first possible case of human-to-cat transmission and if so, is extremely rare. There is still no evidence that cats can transmit the virus to humans and it is important that owners should not worry unnecessarily. As a precaution, it is advised that owners should wash their hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling their pet and those infected with coronavirus (COVID-19) should be particularly mindful by minimising contact.

I keep seeing mentions of Feline Coronavirus or FCov. What is Feline Coronavirus or FCov and should I be worried about my cat getting it?

It is important to note that Feline Coronavirus (FCov) is NOT associated with the current coronavirus pandemic. It is a common, contagious virus that can be found in the faeces of cats. It is more common in multi-cat households and does not affect other animals or people. 

My cat isn’t neutered. Can they still go outside?

Currently most vets are only doing urgent or emergency treatments and routine surgery, such as neutering, is not likely to be available.  If you have a new cat or kitten that hasn’t been neutered, we’d advise keeping them indoors to avoid the possibility of them having kittens at this time. Remember – a female cat can get pregnant from four months of age. Any pregnancy in a cat always has an associated risk of complications and as access to veterinary care is limited at the moment, we’d advise that you avoid your cat getting pregnant (or for male cats, making another cat pregnant). For this reason, if you have a male and female cat in your household and they are not neutered, you should keep them separated. Remember: this also applies to cats that are related, e.g. brother and sister.

My cat needs to go to the vet. What should I do?

If you think your cat needs veterinary care you should phone the practice for further advice in the first instance. Do not take your pet to the surgery unless your vet instructs you to.

Currently, cats should only be taken to the vet for emergency treatment.

I’m self-isolating due to coronavirus (COVID-19) and my cat needs to go to the vet. What should I do?

If you are self-isolating you will NOT be able to go to the vet with your cat for emergency treatment.  Phone the vet for advice and if the vet agrees to treat your cat, you’ll need to arrange for someone else to transport your cat to the vet for you. In this case, we’d recommend you create a plan with your friend or family member for them to contact you by phone as they arrive at your home – that way, you can leave your cat in your carrier outside your door and they can approach at a safe distance. Government advice states that they should wear an outer garment that is disposable (such as an apron) or something that can be easily washed, as well as disposable gloves when handling the cat carrier. Afterwards, we advise them to wash their hands with soap and hot water thoroughly - even if they have been wearing gloves

If you have an emergency or you think you need to rehome your cat, please contact our National information line on 03000 12 12 12 or email [email protected]