Cases of animals getting infected with covid is rare but yes pets like cats and dogs can easily get in touch with covid-19. Mostly infected animals get covid transmitted due to close contact with their humans. Some cases have shown that pets get mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, while common symptoms are cough, sneezing or feeling lethargic like humans. However, similar symptoms or severe illness due to covid are uncommon and rarely life-threatening. Many people have queries related to the Can Pets Contract or Transmit COVID-19? which we have answered in this post. Although doctors suggest that pets in such conditions must be isolated, similar to humans. Testing for pets also exists but is not widely used until symptoms are rare.
Although pets can catch covid-19, they are not significant spreaders of the virus; there is no strong claim to proof that covid-19 can spread from pets to humans. Hence, it is important to maintain good hygiene around animals and wash your hands after touching or feeding your pets. In case you have covid-19, you can avoid close contact with your pets and stay isolated to protect them. Masks are not necessary, as they cannot stop transmission from pets and most pets fully recover with good treatment. Always take treatment from a vet in case you see some worrying symptoms for your pet. You can keep general cleanliness and distance guides to protect your pet from viruses.
Can Pets Contract or Transmit COVID-19?
Those who want to keep their pets safe from covid-19 can use preventive measures like distancing and maintaining hygiene. Disinfect all the surfaces and pet items if someone in the home is infected. Also avoid taking your pets to any crowded places if there is a possibility of transmission and the virus could spread. In some countries there are vaccines for pets but they are highly not recommended and the best option is to keep your pets isolated from infected owners. Pets are known for providing affection during tough times; hence, they need not be abandoned during tough times if the owner is himself dealing with the virus.
Common Symptoms And Reasons For Covid-19 In Pets
- Your pets might experience mild respiratory issues like coughing and sneezing, and they may have difficulty breathing.
- You may see your pets being lethargic and weak, seeming less active and usually tired.
- There could be a loss of appetite and reduced interest in treats or food till the time they are ill.
- Some pets may have a warm nose, fever, nasal discharge and runny eyes.
- Their stomach could be upset with occasional vomiting or diarrhea.
- The most common reason for covid in pets could be their direct contact with their infected owner.
How To Keep Your Pets Safe From Covid-19 Transmission?
- Isolate your pets from anyone in the house who is infected with covid-19 and limit contact as much as possible.
- Maintain your hygiene; regularly wash your hands and face after coughing or sneezing and touch your pets with clean hands even while feeding them.
- Avoid using masks for your pets, as they are not very effective but might cause distress to your pets.
- Clean the surface, your pets toys and food bowls and disinfect food for proper hygiene.
- Skip places like crowded parks for pets and grooming to reduce exposure in places with high transmission risk.
- In case your pets shows symptoms of illness or seems to be unwell, immediately consult with their vet.
FAQs: Can pets contract or transmit COVID-19?
The most common symptoms in cats and dogs for the covid-19 virus are sneezing, cough and illness.
Covid-19 transmission to pets is easy if their infected owners come in contact with their pets.
In case your pets shows symptoms of illness or seems to be unwell, immediately consult with their vet.
