The Toronto Zoo was quick to take precautions after news of a tiger infected with COVID-19 hit the news, The Canadian Press reports in an article that appeared on CBC.ca, as well as several publications and that quotes Prof. Scott Weese, Ontario Veterinary College.

Weese said the infection of the large cat is not entirely surprising, since cats, apes and even ferrets contracted the coronavirus that causes SARS, which is similar to COVID-19. Weese, who is an expert on emerging infectious diseases and infection control, added there are no studies yet on whether cats can infect humans with the COVID-19, but it appears unlikely.

Weese also spoke to The Canadian Press about how veterinary care has changed since the pandemic and subsequent shutdowns began. The article appeared on GlobalNews.ca as well as several other publications.

Weese said most veterinary clinics have reduced their services to minimize contact with vets and many are adopting telemedicine practices and remote consultations. But he added that most clinics will still see pets that are injured or seriously ill.

“We’re providing as much care as we can while being socially responsible,” he said.

Weese is a veterinary internal medicine specialist, the chief of infection control at OVC and a professor in the Department of Pathobiology.