Coronavirus is a very-real health issue that threatens everyone- including pets. It is theorized that this virus originally came from an animal, more specifically, a bat. This raises questions, especially for pet owners: Can pets get COVID-19? What about spreading it to others?
Here is what you need to know:
COVID-19 in Pets
Coronaviruses are actually a group of viruses, which includes COVID-19. Coronavirus in people manifests differently in pets. In fact, some strains of Coronavirus only affect animals- not humans- and is often present in herd animals, like cows or camels. It is reported that COVID-19 originated in animals, but was at some point transmitted to people.
Transmission
So, how do you catch COVID-19? Typically, the virus that causes COVID-19 is transmitted from people through coughing, sneezing, and talking, being passed through the droplets that are emitted. This is why so many support face mask mandates. As of the time this is written, there is no substantial proof or evidence that animals play a significant part in the spread of COVID-19. However, there have been studies that indicate that people can pass and transmit COVID-19 to animals in some instances. Use precautions around your pets.
Other Animals
Since it is reported that COVID-19 originated with a bat, what other animals are affected by this virus? Some laboratory experiments and studies looked at how rodents can become infected with this virus and spread it among their own species. Other studies have used primates to replicate the human condition in a means of determining more about the transmission of Coronavirus infection.
Some animals that seem immune to this virus so far include ducks, pigs, and fowl, like chickens. They neither become infected by this virus nor do they appear to be transmitting it to other animals. Cats seem to spread the virus more easily and readily than dogs, at least among their own species.
Coronavirus Risk
All things considered, information is still scant, and COVID-19 needs more research and studies. Based on what is known now, the risk of catching COVID-19 from your pets is highly unlikely; furthermore, owners that are ill or infected should use hand hygiene and avoid kissing, coughing, or eating near pets. One thing is clear: more research and studies are needed to determine the risks of Coronavirus for your pets- and all animals.
So, it seems that there is no compelling proof in the theory that animals- namely, pets- are a significant factor in the spread of COVID-19, or Coronavirus. This is not to say that pet owners should not be cautious and precautionary when it comes to this virus and their pet’s health. Have you recently lost your pet? Visit or call Midlands Pet Care, a family owned & operated business, specializing in pet cremation and burial services; we want to help during this difficult time.