With paws tucked underneath her body, my white puspin cat is soaking up sunlight on the windowsill. Cate (named after the Academy Award-winning actress Cate Blanchett) loves to follow the sun when napping. I can tell from the sound of her faint purrs that she’s relaxed, unlike her anxious owner.
The world has come to a standstill, but our pets don’t know that. Life goes on for them. Consider yourself lucky if you’re quarantined with cats, dogs, or any other pets you may have. During these days of isolation and social distancing, pets are the perfect companions. When you have something to take care of, it distracts you from spiraling into overwhelming anxiety and sadness. It helps to be present with your furbabies. Pay full attention when doing things for them—emptying the litter box, feeding or petting them.
Feline Sad No More
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A cat’s purr is one of the greatest gifts that the universe bestowed upon us. Those soft purrs can calm your nerves and lower your blood pressure. We need loads of that right now so go and pet your cat. If your cat shows you its belly, resist the urge to pet that area at all cost. I learned that the hard way.
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As you may have heard from the news, cats can get infected with the coronavirus. They can get it from us but there’s no evidence yet that they can spread it to humans. Keep an eye on the news for updates on this evolving situation. In the meantime, err on the side of caution. Keep them indoors and clean your home regularly. Always wash your hands before and after interacting with them.
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Take this cat quiz for more fur-midable felines.
Dogs’ Paw-sitivity
With the extended quarantine period, dogs all over the world are delighted to be around their fur parents. They can have unlimited cuddles and belly rubs. Petting them will help you ease your loneliness, so go and pet away. Shower them with love and attention.
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I have a love-hate relationship with dogs. I like how loyal and adorable they are but I can’t keep up with their enthusiasm. If you’re cool with that, then you’ve found your best friend—four-legged mammal category. When you’re down in the dumps, you can always count on dogs to cheer you up.
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Dogs can get cabin fever since they are used to socializing and daily walks outside. They keep us entertained and happy in tough times; we need to help them stay sane too. Give them chew toys, feed them on time, make their bath time fun. You can also schedule an everyday playtime with them.
If you’re paw-ssionate about dogs, then you’d love this dog quiz.
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Our pets may never completely cast off our worries and fears, but they lighten up our mood even for a little while. Stay home for the sake of your furbabies.
Read other quarantine stories here.
