A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine suggests that domestic cats can contract and transmit COVID-19 to other felines—though researchers emphasize that infected pets show mild or no symptoms.
Key Findings from the Study
The small-scale experiment involved six cats, three of which were deliberately infected with SARS-CoV-2. The remaining healthy cats were housed with the infected felines to test transmission. Within five days, all cats tested positive via nasal and rectal swabs, though none exhibited illness and all recovered fully.
Researchers warned that the ease of transmission between cats raises concerns about potential “human-cat-human” spread, particularly in households under lockdown orders.
CDC Updates Guidelines for Pets
Last month, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) expanded its social distancing recommendations to include pets, advising owners to:
Keep cats indoors when possible.
Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from others.
Limit pets’ contact with people and animals outside the household.
Isolate from pets if infected with COVID-19, avoiding petting, snuggling, or sharing food/bedding.
Cases in U.S. Animals
The first known U.S. animal case was a Bronx Zoo tiger in April. Since then, two New York cats and a North Carolina dog have tested positive—all after exposure to infected humans. The CDC stresses that while human-to-animal transmission can occur, there is no evidence pets play a significant role in spreading the virus.
Experts Advise Against Overreaction
Veterinary experts urge pet owners not to panic, noting most infected animals remain asymptomatic. However, they recommend vigilance to minimize risks.
“We are still learning about this virus,” the CDC stated, “but it appears it can spread from people to animals in some situations.”
For ongoing updates, follow trusted health sources like the CDC and WHO.
Related topics:
