“Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals, including pets, spreading Covid-19 to people is considered low,” said CDC official Dr. Casey Barton Behravesh, during an interview on Monday -market.
Evidence suggests that Covid-19 probably originated in animals before it spread among humans.
“In mid-January, we were aware of 187 animals from 22 countries with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection,” said Behravesh, noting that these figures do not include mink on mink farms. She added that no animal deaths have yet been linked to the virus.
The CDC is closely monitoring research on coronavirus infections in animals and has classified some animals based on the risk of infection. Animals that are highly susceptible to the virus include cats, hamsters, non-human primates, rabbits, mink and deer, said Behravesh.
Protecting Pets
Behravesh said companion animals, especially dogs and cats, are the main group of animal species affected by the coronavirus.
Although the risk of animal-to-human transmission is low, people can spread the coronavirus to pets, said Behravesh.
The CDC recommends that people treat pets in the same way that they would treat human family members to protect them from Covid-19, limiting contact with people outside the home. The agency advises keeping cats indoors and preventing other pets from roaming freely. Masks should not be placed on pets, as they can cause damage.
Infected people should avoid contact with pets, which means not kissing, cuddling or sleeping in the same bed, says the CDC. In fact, people with coronavirus should look for another family member to care for pets. If that is not possible, the CDC says that people should wear masks when interacting with their pets.
People who suspect their pets may have coronavirus should consult a veterinarian. Behravesh noted that among 93 cases of Covid-19 in dogs and cats in the United States, 53% had no symptoms. The most common symptoms reported in animals were respiratory signs, such as coughing or sneezing. Other reported symptoms include fever, lethargy, vomiting and diarrhea.
Pets tested positive for coronavirus should be isolated from humans and other animals, Behravesh said.
There is no evidence that pets carry or spread the coronavirus on skin or hair, and it is important not to clean or bathe pets with chemical disinfectants, said Behravesh.
“Pet poison controls have seen an increase in calls due to these types of exposure among pets,” she said.
The Food and Drug Administration has not approved any medication for treating or preventing Covid-19 in animals, noted Behravesh.