As a pet owner, I have wondered about any risks to my cat Moxie getting the coronavirus from me, or vice-versa. I was relieved to find some of the answers on the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) website.

To begin with, the site said that non-porous surfaces, such as countertops and door knobs transmit viruses better than porous materials, such as pet fur. That’s because porous, especially fibrous, materials absorb and traps the virus. That makes it harder to contract by simply touching.

The AVMA previously said there is no evidence to indicate the communicability of COVID-19 with animals, but a tiger at the Bronx Zoo was confirmed Sunday.

The USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratories has confirmed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in one tiger at a zoo in New York. This is the first instance of a tiger being infected with COVID-19. Several lions and tigers at the zoo showed clinical signs of respiratory illness and this tiger was tested accordingly. Public health employees believe the large cats became ill after being exposed to a zoo employee who was actively shedding virus. All of the large cats are expected to recover. No other animals in other areas of the zoo are exhibiting similar clinical signs. USDA and CDC are monitoring this situation and the OIE will be notified of the finding

There have been no reports of pets or livestock becoming ill with COVID-19 in the United States. At this point in time, there is also no evidence that domestic animals, including pets and livestock, can spread COVID-19 to people.

The AVMA website recommended the following precautions if you are and are not ill with the virus:

• 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; and ensure your pet is kept well-groomed. Regularly clean your pet’s food and water bowls, bedding material and toys.)

• Out of an abundance of caution, it is recommended that those ill with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus. Have another member of your household take care of walking, feeding and playing with your pet. If you have a service animal or you must care for your pet, then wear a facemask; don’t share food, kiss or hug them. Wash your hands before and after any contact with them.