Creating a COVID-19 Preparedness Plan for Your Cat

Depending on where you live in the country, having a COVID-19 plan for your cat (or any pet) may be a good idea. It is something I actually didn’t think about until I was doing research for another post and came across some information. And quite honestly, I didn't want to think about it. The thought of not being here for my girls is terrifying, but something I know I need to be prepared for. This may be a little late, but if you live in an area that still has a high number of cases it is something to consider.

I have been extremely fortunate during this pandemic and lockdown in New York State – I’m able to work both of my jobs from home, and I'm still bringing in my salary (something I give thanks for every day.) Lola, Lexy, and I have everything we need, and as usual, my girls want for nothing. But what would happen to them in a sudden emergency? 

Below are some tips for creating a COVID-19 pet preparedness plan.

CREATING A COVID-19 PREPAREDNESS PLAN FOR YOUR CAT

Know the Facts

It’s important to stay informed about COVID-19 and pets. Many people have been worried that they can catch the disease from their cats, or vice versa. To date there is no evidence that cats, or other pets, can spread COVID-19 to humans. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) states that “there is no evidence to suggest that animals, including pets, that may be incidentally infected by humans are playing a role in the spread of COVID-19. Human outbreaks are driven by person-to-person transmission.” The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)  and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also support this.

Additional information:

AVMA FAQ
Humane Society of the United States FAQs
CDC Resource
Animal Medical Center FAQs

It is always good to have information that you can use to inform others. Especially if you need help with your cat.

Plan Ahead

Designate a Caretaker

If you become ill and are unable to care for your cats or you are hospitalized, they will need someone to take care of them. It will give you peace of mind to designate this person ahead of time. It could be someone in your household, or if you live alone it could be a friend or family member, co-worker, neighbor, etc. Boarding facilities may be open in your area if your cats will need to be boarded. You can do a google search to find one in your area.

If you become ill but are still able to care for your cats, it is best to keep them at home with you. 

Photo via Dreamstime

Make Sure Your Cats are Identifiable

In the event someone who may not be very familiar with your cats comes into your home to take care of them, or they have to be boarded, you want others to know who they are (especially if there is an emergency and your cat needs to go to the vet.) If your cat doesn’t wear a collar with ID tags, you can download a template for a free pet ID card here.  You can also download this ID card from Lollypop.org for your wallet so medical professionals know you have cats at home and who to contact in an emergency. 

(Note: It is also a good idea to make sure your cat’s microchip information is current.)

Stock up on Supplies

Food:

If you have to be quarantined for any reason you will have to remain indoors for two weeks, so have at least an additional two weeks' worth of food for your cat on hand. I would recommend more than that in the event you are hospitalized. (I have an extra month's worth on hand.)

Litter: 

Don’t’ forget litter! If your cats are picky about their litter (like Lola and Lexy are) you’ll want to have plenty of the type they prefer in house.

Extras: 

Have extra bowls handy. Extra treats are always a plus, too.

Additional Information

• Take your carriers out of the closet so they are easily accessible.
• Make sure your cat’s favorite blankets and toys are available to them.
• Write down all of the daily care instructions someone would need to know in order to take care of your cat. This includes feeding instructions, litter box instructions, favorite toys, your cat’s personality (for example, I wrote down “do not pick up Lexy”), hiding places, etc.
• Veterinarian’s address and phone number.
• Medication.

It really doesn’t take long to prepare the above. I’m glad I did because, if nothing else, it gives me peace of mind. And although this post is focused on cats the information is useful for any pet.

Do you have a preparedness plan for your cat?

Dawn