Tiger is positive for Covid virus

A Minnesota tiger was confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, based on results from the U.S. Department of Agriculture laboratories. The tiger lives at The Wildcat Sanctuary in Pine County. The sanctuary veterinarian reports the 21-year-old female Sumatran/Bengal tiger received supportive care and has recovered. Staff first noticed lions, tigers and cougars displaying symptoms in early January. Shortly after, the veterinarian consulted state animal health officials about testing for SARS-CoV-2 at a private laboratory before results were officially confirmed by the USDA.

The board announced one other Covid-positive animal in Minnesota since the start of the pandemic — a Carver County housecat in June.

People with Covid-19 can spread the virus to some animals during close contact. Therefore, it’s important for people with suspected or confirmed cases to avoid contact with pets and other animals to protect them from possible infection.

The Wildcat Sanctuary is not open to the public.