A cougar at In-Sync Exotics Wildlife Rescue and Educational Center has tested positive for COVID-19 as the first in the U.S., with only one other case being reported in South Africa.
In December, Dallas Voice visited the wildlife rescue in Wylie and reported on the facility here. While sedated for routine medical check-ups, In-Sync Exotics’ veterinarian performed a nasopharyngeal swab to test for the presence of COVID-19.
The results came back positive. Additionally, three tigers also tested positive. COVID-19 is spread via droplets in the air either by sneezing or coughing.
All four exotic cats are doing well and exhibiting no symptoms. The cats are all being closely monitored by In-Sync Exotics’ veterinarian, staff, and volunteers.