As a loving pet owner, you might be concerned about the health of your furry friends, especially with the ongoing presence of COVID-19. A common question arises: can pets catch COVID-19 from humans? The answer, according to experts, is yes, pets can contract the virus from humans, although it’s not the primary way they get infected. It’s important to understand that while pets can get sick, severe illness is rare, and most recover fully.
How Do Pets Get COVID-19?
The virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, primarily spreads between people. However, it is also zoonotic, meaning it can be transmitted between humans and animals. Pets mainly get infected through close contact with infected humans. This typically happens when a pet owner has COVID-19 and they are in close proximity to their animals. While less common, pets might also contract the virus from touching contaminated surfaces and then grooming themselves.
Symptoms of COVID-19 in Pets
If your pet has contracted COVID-19, they may exhibit a range of symptoms, although some infected pets might not show any signs at all. For those that do become sick, the illness is usually mild and manageable at home. Common symptoms to watch out for include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Eye discharge
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
It’s crucial to remember that these symptoms can also be indicative of other illnesses in pets. Therefore, if you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to get a proper diagnosis and care plan.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Pet Has COVID-19
If your pet is showing symptoms and you suspect they might have COVID-19, the first step is to contact your veterinarian. It’s especially important to inform your vet if you are currently sick with COVID-19 or have been recently. To avoid potential spread, do not take your pet to the clinic yourself if you are sick. Call your vet and inquire about telemedicine consultations or alternative arrangements for examining your pet. Many veterinarians now offer virtual appointments to assess pets remotely.
Caring for Your Pet at Home if They Have COVID-19
In many cases, if your pet tests positive for COVID-19 and has mild symptoms, your veterinarian may recommend home isolation and care. If this is the case, you can care for your pet at home while taking precautions similar to those you would take when caring for an infected person. This includes practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, and minimizing close contact with your pet as much as possible while still providing necessary care. For cats, it’s advised to keep them indoors to prevent potential spread to other animals.
During home isolation, closely monitor your pet’s symptoms. Keep track of any changes or worsening conditions and promptly inform your veterinarian. They may advise you to keep a symptom log to help track your pet’s progress and recovery.
When Can Your Pet Return to Normal Activities?
It’s important to follow your veterinarian’s guidance on when it’s safe to end home isolation for your pet and allow them to interact with other animals and people again. Generally, pets can resume normal activities when they have not shown any symptoms for at least 72 hours without any medical intervention, and it has been a minimum of 14 days since their initial positive test, or if follow-up tests are negative.
In conclusion, while pets can contract COVID-19 from humans, it’s not a common occurrence, and the illness is typically mild in pets. By staying informed, observing your pet for any symptoms, and consulting with your veterinarian, you can ensure the health and well-being of your beloved companion during these times.
