What You Should Know about Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) and Pets
United States citizens have been called upon to take action according to 15 Days to Slow the Spread of COVID-19 guidelines. With self-quarantines happening around the world, schools closing, and recommendations to social distance and stay home, many pet owners are left wondering whether their pets can be affected by novel Coronavirus (apart from experiencing unprecedented levels of snuggling at home).
What We Know about COVID-19 and Pets So Far
With most efforts currently dedicated to learning more about the virus and its effect on humans, a lot more research is needed to fully understand whether it can actually affect cats and dogs. Thus far, only two pet dogs that were exposed have been tested in China. One showed some evidence of the virus in swabs of its nasal cavity, while the other did not.
Can Pets Contract Novel Coronavirus?
There’s currently no evidence proving that pets can contract COVID-19, nor is there concrete evidence that cats and dogs can transmit the virus. Much more information, however, is needed to understand whether COVID-19 can affect household pets. Research in this area is ongoing, and the AVMA is committed to updating the veterinary community as additional information becomes available.
COVID-19 Pet Safety
Since information is scarce, the AVMA recommends taking precautions with your pets. Minimize their contact with people and animals outside your household, and make plans to quarantine your pets in another home should any member of your household fall ill.
Animals and humans can transmit and contract certain diseases from one another, so it’s always a good idea to wash your hands before and after interacting with your pets.
Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) and Canine Coronavirus (CCoV) Are Not Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Dogs and cats have their own species-specific versions of Coronavirus, but they’re not the same as the virus responsible for the pandemic. Neither is contagious to humans.
Concerned about an Upcoming Appointment? Learn More about Our Safety Measures
At Eastwaye Veterinary Clinic in Goldsboro, we’re taking serious precautions. We’ve increased sanitation efforts in exam rooms, waiting areas, and other high-traffic, high-touch places. We’re also offering to meet clients in their vehicles. If you’d rather error on the side of caution, we welcome you to contact our office to reschedule an upcoming appointment or to learn more about how to keep your family — fuzzy members included — healthy.
