As a pet owner, you might be wondering, “Can U Give Covid To Pets?” This is a common concern, and it’s important to stay informed about the evolving situation regarding pets and the virus that causes COVID-19. Rest assured, while pets can contract the virus, it’s generally not a cause for major alarm.
Understanding COVID-19 in Pets
It’s reassuring to know that although pets can become infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, the majority experience mild or no symptoms at all. For those pets that do get sick, most cases are mild, and full recovery is typical. Severe illness in pets remains incredibly rare. This is crucial information for any concerned pet parent.
Can Pets Contract COVID-19 from Humans?
Current evidence suggests that pets can indeed contract COVID-19 from close contact with infected people. This is why it’s important to take precautions if you are sick with COVID-19 to protect your furry companions. While the risk of pets spreading the virus back to humans is considered low, it’s still essential to be mindful of potential transmission to and from your pets.
Symptoms of COVID-19 in Pets
If your pet does become symptomatic, the illness is usually mild and manageable at home. Keep an eye out for these potential signs of COVID-19 in your pet:
- Fever
- Cough
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Lethargy or unusual tiredness
- Sneezing
- Nasal discharge
- Eye discharge
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you observe any of these symptoms in your pet and suspect COVID-19, the next step is to consult with your veterinarian.
What to Do If You Suspect Your Pet Has COVID-19
If your pet is showing signs of illness and you’re concerned it might be COVID-19, the first and most important step is to contact your veterinarian.
Crucially, if you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet needs veterinary care, do not take them to the clinic yourself. Instead, call your vet and inform them of your COVID-19 status. Many veterinary practices now offer telemedicine consultations or have protocols in place to safely manage pets of owners with COVID-19.
Home Isolation and Care for Pets
Based on your pet’s symptoms and the veterinarian’s assessment, they might recommend home isolation for your pet. If home isolation is advised and you can care for your pet at home, ensure you follow these guidelines:
- Keep your pet at home, and only leave for necessary veterinary appointments.
- When caring for your sick pet, protect yourself by following the same precautions you would take when caring for an infected person at home. Refer to guidelines from health organizations for detailed advice on this.
- If you have a cat that has tested positive, it’s vital to keep them indoors and prevent them from roaming outside to minimize potential spread.
Monitoring Symptoms and Recovery
During home isolation, closely monitor your pet’s symptoms. It’s important to track any changes. If you notice new symptoms or a worsening condition, immediately contact your veterinarian.
Adhere to all specific care instructions provided by your veterinarian. They may advise you to keep a written record of your pet’s symptoms to help monitor their progress.
When Can Your Pet End Home Isolation?
Always follow your veterinarian’s guidance on when it’s safe for your pet to resume normal activities around other people and animals. Generally, your pet can return to their regular routine when they meet the following criteria:
- They have not displayed any symptoms for at least 72 hours without the aid of medication.
AND
- It has been a minimum of 14 days since your pet’s initial positive COVID-19 test.
OR
- All subsequent tests for active infection are negative.
Consult your veterinarian for the most appropriate course of action for your pet’s specific situation. They can provide tailored advice based on your pet’s health and local guidelines.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of your pet’s health issues.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – https://www.cdc.gov/
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – https://www.avma.org/
