My humans are beginning to show signs of anxiety. They say the word "coronavirus" a lot, and they are showing symptoms of excessive grooming and hoarding behavior. I am concerned. But I am also confused. Should I be more concerned for them, assuming their behavior is the sign of some illness or psychological disorder? Or should I be more concerned for myself, since there may be a virus coming and no one is doing anything to protect me?
What should I do about this? How scared should I be?
--Panic (?)
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| Panic? |
Dear Panic,
No, don't panic. The virus your humans are concerned about only weakly infects cats at most. If you get it you will not become all that sick, and you will not need to worry that you will infect your humans or their friends.
Meanwhile, your humans' washing and hoarding behaviors are entirely normal and even wise under the circumstances. In fact, you might want to remind them that they should stock up on kitty litter while they are at it. If the virus strikes in your humans' community you may find that they stay home more than usual--and even, possibly, all the time for a while. This might disrupt your routine, but try to be understanding, as they will be under considerable stress. Your natural role as a stress-reducer, soothing humans with your soft coat and the sound of your purr, will be invaluable.
If your humans become ill, things may get much worse. In a mild case, however, you may again be able to play a helpful role. A human with a fever makes an excellent bed-warmer for you, and you in turn can be a comfort to your human. It is the more severe cases that are worrisome. But remember, you yourself should be fine.
--Thera
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| Don't Panic |
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