Being the opportunistic jerk that it is, the coronavirus will latch onto any living organism it can to survive. This is because viruses need a host organism to replicate.
That means plants, bacteria, and animals are all susceptible to viruses.
While the coronavirus seems to have a particular liking for humans, it has also infected other creatures such as cats and dogs.
Now, four more cats have tested positive for the disease. Only they’re a little larger than the previous cases.
Four Lions in Night Safari Test Positive for COVID-19
It’s not often that you see a lion coughing, wheezing, or sneezing. They’re more known for their roaring and teeth-baring.
But these symptoms were exhibited by four Asiatic lions at the Night Safari recently. When they were tested with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, they were confirmed to be carrying COVID-19. It’s unclear how they were tested, but we’re certain no one is going up to them and shoving swabs up their nostrils while they’re awake.
It turns out that the four lions were exposed to staff from Mandai Wildlife Group who tested positive for COVID-19, including three keepers from the Night Safari Carnivore section.
Asiatic Lion Exhibit Closed; Lions Isolated
An African lion at the Singapore Zoo also showed symptoms on Monday (8 Nov), and is currently undergoing testing.
As a result, all nine Asiatic lions and five African lions will be isolated in their respective dens.
The Asiatic lion exhibit along the tram route at the Night Safari has also been closed since Sunday after the lions exhibited symptoms.
Lions Will Make Full Recovery; Antibiotics May Be Needed
We’ve not seen or heard of many lions taking antibiotics, presumably because of the lack of medical advancements in the animal world.
While the lions are expected to recover fully with minor supportive treatment, they may need anti-inflammatories and antibiotics if further treatment is required.
The authorities said it will continue to monitor the sick lions and test the samples of other lions as well.
Tiger In New York Tested Positive in 2020
Believe it or not, other large cats have contracted COVID-19 in the past.
Possibly the first reported case came in Apr 2020, when Nadia, a female Malaysian tiger at the Bronx Zoo in New York, tested positive for the coronavirus.
She was tested after zoo employees noticed she had a dry cough. For those who have never heard a tiger cough, here it is:
Yes, it’s weird.
The good news is that animals generally do not fall seriously ill from the virus, according to Dr Sonja Luz, vice president of conservation, research, and veterinary at Mandai Wildlife Group.
So, these lions should be back to their roaring best in no time.
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Featured Image: Night Safari
