Veterinary associations around the world advise cat owners who may have been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms to keep their cats indoors, minimize contact, and wash their hands before and after touching cats as well as food and water bowls. "Out of an abundance of caution and until more is known about this virus, if you are ill with COVID-19 you should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just as you would restrict your contact with other people," the AVMA says.