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4/16/2020

Coronavirus and pet care – What to do during quarantine

The new coronavirus is changing the lives of many people and pets as well. Now, the pets spend more time with their families at home, the outings are less frequent and shorter, and hygiene has improved. So far, there are no certainties, but researchers from different parts of the world are studying cases of animals infected by the virus and evaluating the possibility of these animals spreading it to other animals and humans. The official and updated information on these studies can be found in newsletters published by different veterinary medicine entities worldwide.

Imagem de quatro animais de estimação, gato, ave, cão e hamster. 
 

Anyway, the moment requires attention. We are talking about a new disease and we do not know its consequences yet. Therefore, these are some of the recommendations for pet owners:

  • Reduce the frequency of bathing and grooming in pet shops; hygiene at home is the best option;
  • Do not allow the animal to have contact with other animals or people at this moment;
  • The outings must be reduced, in small distances, just to meet the physiological needs of the animals;
  • On walks, it is important to keep a safe distance – around 2 meters – from other people and animals, and to avoid crowds, such as parks and squares;
  • For cats, try to restrict the animal's area providing a safe environment;
  • Try to clean the paws and snouts of the animals when you get home from a walk;
  • Keep the floor and surfaces clean;
  • Avoid letting pets sleep in bed or on some surfaces, such as sofas, chairs, and tables;
  • Try to wash your hands before and after touching animals, food, their feces or urine;
  • Avoid kissing or sharing food with your pets;

Take care of your pet

A very common question is whether infected people can keep physical contact with their pets. The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) recommends that people infected by COVID-19 should avoid close contact with their pets. When you sneeze or cough, you can spread virus particles on the animal's fur, which can become a transmission route.

Animals, as well as humans, need care and preventive measures. Take care of your pets because they need you.

Sources: Regional Council of Veterinary Medicine of Rio de Janeiro and Federal Council of Veterinary Medicine
Coronavirus and pet care – What to do during quarantine