A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reveals that domestic cats can contract and transmit COVID-19 to other felines, though infected animals showed no symptoms and recovered fully.
Key Findings from the Study
Researchers conducted an experiment involving six cats, inoculating three with SARS-CoV-2—the virus causing COVID-19—and placing healthy cats in close contact with them. Within five days, all cats tested positive via nasal and rectal swabs, confirming transmission. However, none exhibited symptoms, and all recovered without complications.
The study’s authors emphasized the need for further research into potential human-to-cat-to-human transmission chains, particularly in households under shelter-in-place orders.
CDC Updates Guidelines for Pet Owners
Following confirmed cases of COVID-19 in pets—including cats, dogs, and zoo animals like tigers—the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded its social distancing guidelines to include household pets. Recommendations include:
Keeping cats indoors when possible.
Walking dogs on a leash while maintaining at least six feet from others.
Avoiding contact with pets if owners suspect they have COVID-19 (including petting, snuggling, or sharing food/bedding).
The CDC clarified that while animals can contract the virus, there is no evidence they play a significant role in spreading it to humans. Most cases involved pets in close contact with infected owners.
Confirmed Cases in U.S. Pets
The first U.S. animal case was a Bronx Zoo tiger in April. Since then, two New York cats and a North Carolina dog tested positive, though few showed symptoms.
Experts urge pet owners to remain cautious but not overreact, as the risk of animal-to-human transmission remains low.
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