Helpful Questions & Answers about Coronavirus (COVID-19) and your Pets
simple infographic featuring icons from left to right of the coronavirus, a human figure, hands washing under running water, a face mask and a dog and cat encircled by a heart shape
You have probably seen and heard a lot about coronavirus (COVID-19) and how to maintain your safety and that of your family. But what about others, such as furry family members - your pets? Below, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration offers some questions and answers to help keep you, your family, and your pets safe during the pandemic.
Q. Can I get COVID-19 from my pet or other animal?
A. Based on the limited information available at present, the risk of pets in spreading the virus caused by COVID-19 in humans is considered low. At this time, there is no evidence that animals play an important role in the spread of the virus caused by COVID-19. There are a small number of animals worldwide reported to be infected with the virus caused by COVID-19, mostly after having close contact with a person with COVID-19.
Until we learn how this virus affects animals, treat pets as they treat family members to protect them from possible infections. This means:
Do not allow pets to interact with humans or other animals outside the household.
If possible, keep cats indoors to avoid contact with other animals or humans.
Walk dogs with a leash that keeps at least 6 feet (2 meters) away from other people and animals.
Avoid parks for dogs or public places where many people and dogs gather.
If your pet is getting sick or you have any concerns about your pet's health, talk to your veterinarian.
Q. If I get COVID-19, can I infect my pet with the virus?
A. We are still learning about this virus, but it appears in some situations that it can spread from humans to animals. If you are sick or think you have COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends limiting contact with animals until more information is available about the new coronavirus.
This means you should avoid socializing with your pet, including caressing, cuddling, kissing or licking, and sharing food or bedding. If possible, have one family member take care of your pet while you are sick. If you must take care of your pet or you need to socialize with animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with your pets, and wear a cloth that covers your face.
Q. Should my pet be tested for COVID-19?
A. Routine testing of pets for COVID-19 is not recommended at these times. We are still learning about this virus, but it appears that it can spread from humans to animals in some situations. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of pets in spreading the virus caused by COVID-19 in humans is considered low. If your pet is sick, consult your veterinarian.
Q. Can animals carry the virus that causes COVID-19 on their skin or fur?
A. Although we know that some bacteria and fungi can be transmitted to feathers and hair, there is no evidence that viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19, can spread to humans from the skin, feathers or hair pet.
However, since animals can carry other germs that can cause illness in humans, it is always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals, including washing your hands before and after mingling with them.
Q. Is it safe to adopt pets from a shelter?
A. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals in transmitting COVID-19 to humans is considered low. There is no reason to think that any animal, including pets in the shelter, plays an important role in the spread of the virus caused by COVID-19.
Q. What kind of animals can get COVID-19?
A. Currently we do not fully understand how COVID-19 affects different species of animals. We know of a small number of pets, including dogs and cats, that have been reported to be infected with the virus caused by COVID-19 after having close contact with someone with COVID-19.
Recent research has shown that golden Syrian ferrets, cats and costa rats can be experimentally infected with the virus and can spread the infection to other animals of the same species in the laboratory environment. Pigs, chickens and ducks did not become infected or spread the infection based on the results from these studies. Data from one study suggests that dogs are less likely to be infected with the virus than cats and ferrets. These findings are based on the small number of animals and do not indicate whether animals can spread the infection to humans.
The first animal confirmed by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 was a tiger at a New York zoo on April 4, 2020.
On April 22, 2020, the USDA and CDC announced that they had confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection in two domestic cats. These were the first pets in the United States to test positive for SARS-CoV-2. The cats lived in two separate areas of New York state. Both had slight respiratory illness and expected their full recovery.
For any animal deemed to be positive, the USDA National Veterinary Service Laboratory conducts additional testing to confirm the infection and post the results of the positive animal on its website.
