As a pet owner, it’s natural to be concerned about the health and well-being of your furry, scaled, or feathered companions, especially when global health events like the COVID-19 pandemic arise. A common question among pet lovers is: “Can Covid Affect Pets?” The reassuring news is that while pets can indeed be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, it’s typically not a cause for major alarm.
Generally, pets that contract the virus either show no symptoms at all or experience only mild illness and make a full recovery. Severe illness in pets remains exceptionally rare. This means that if your pet does get sick, you can usually provide supportive care at home.
If your pet does become symptomatic with COVID-19, the signs are usually mild and can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing or noticeable shortness of breath
- Lethargy, marked by an unusual lack of energy or sluggishness
- Sneezing
- Runny nose
- Discharge from the eyes
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Should your pet exhibit these symptoms and you suspect a possible COVID-19 infection, the first and most crucial step is to reach out to your veterinarian. They can provide tailored advice and guidance based on your pet’s specific situation.
If you yourself are unwell with COVID-19 and your pet starts showing signs of illness, it’s important not to take your pet to the veterinary clinic personally. Instead, contact your veterinarian via phone and inform them of your COVID-19 status. Many veterinary practices now offer telemedicine consultations or have established protocols to manage sick pets safely when their owners are also ill.
In cases where your pet tests positive for the virus, your veterinarian will guide you on the next steps. Depending on the severity of your pet’s symptoms, they might recommend home isolation.
If home isolation is advised and you are capable of caring for your pet at home, ensure your pet remains indoors except for necessary veterinary appointments. When caring for your sick pet, it’s essential to protect yourself by following the same safety precautions recommended for individuals caring for someone with COVID-19 at home.
For cats that have tested positive for the virus, it is particularly important to keep them indoors and prevent them from roaming outside to minimize any potential spread.
During home isolation, diligently monitor your pet’s symptoms. If you observe new symptoms emerging or a worsening of their condition, promptly contact your veterinarian. Adhere strictly to all care instructions provided by your veterinarian, which may include maintaining a written log of your pet’s symptoms to track their progress.
To determine when it’s safe to end home isolation and allow your pet to resume normal interactions with people and other animals, always follow your veterinarian’s specific recommendations. Generally, pets can return to their regular routines when they meet certain criteria, such as:
- Showing no symptoms for at least 72 hours without the aid of medical intervention.
AND:
- At least 14 days have passed since your pet’s initial positive COVID-19 test.
OR
- All subsequent follow-up tests for active infection come back negative, as determined by your veterinarian.
By staying informed and proactive, and by working closely with your veterinarian, you can navigate concerns about “can COVID affect pets” and ensure the continued health and happiness of your beloved animal companions.
