Tiger In The Zoo Tests Positive For COVID-19

With the coronavirus spreading rapidly around the world, some have raised concerns about whether it can pass between pets and people. So far, there have been a few reports of pets being infected: a cat in Belgium and two dogs in Hong Kong. 

This 4-year-old female Malayan tiger at the Bronx Zoo is reportedly the latest animal who got tested positive for COVID-19, according to report.

Nadia, the tiger, was exposed to an asymptomatic worker at the zoo. The Bronx Zoo, in New York City, says the test result was confirmed by the National Veterinary Service Laboratory in lowa. Nadia, along with six other big cats, is thought to have been infected. The cats started showing symptoms, including a dry cough, late last month after exposure to the employee, but are all expected to recover.

4 year old female Malayan Tiger at the Bronx Zoo tests positive for #covid19 ... 3 other tigers and 3 African lions also have dry coughs. All cats expected to recover. @BronxZoo says asymptomatic employee infected the cats. #nbc4ny (📷: WCS) pic.twitter.com/7KhIJpcCjv

— Steven Bognar (@Bogs4NY) April 5, 2020

The American Veterinary Medical Association released the following guidance for human and pet interaction:

Nothing about this case changes AVMA’s ongoing recommendation that, out of an abundance of caution, and until more is known about this virus, you should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just as you would restrict contact with other people. When possible, have another member of your household or business take care of feeding and otherwise caring for any animals. If you have a service animal or you must care for your animals, including pets, wear a cloth facemask; don’t share food, kiss, or hug them; and wash your hands before and after any contact with them.

If you are not ill with COVID-19, you can interact with your pet as you normally would, including walking, feeding, and playing. You should continue to practice good hygiene during those interactions (e.g., wash hands before and after interacting with your pet, including when handling food, supplies, and waste; ensure your pet is kept clean; regularly wash your pet’s food and water bowls, bedding material, and toys).