Can You Be Around Your Pets When You Have COVID-19?
As COVID-19 continues to circulate globally, many pet owners wonder whether it's safe to be around their animals while infected. Research has confirmed that SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, can infect certain animals, especially pets like dogs, cats, ferrets, and hamsters, primarily due to close contact with infected humans.
How COVID-19 Affects Pets
Most pets infected with SARS-CoV-2 show no symptoms or only mild clinical signs. These may include:
- Fever
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
- Sneezing
- Nasal or eye discharge
- Vomiting and diarrhea
Severe illness in pets is extremely rare. In most cases, pets recover at home with proper care: hydration, nutrition, and rest.
Can Pets Spread COVID-19 to Humans?
The risk of pets transmitting COVID-19 to humans is considered very low. Most evidence indicates that people infect their pets, not the other way around. No evidence supports infection through the fur, skin, or hair of pets.
Animal-to-human transmission events have occurred primarily in mink farms and not commonly in home environments. Natural pet-to-human transmission under normal living conditions is extremely unlikely.
Risk Factors for Pet Infection
Studies identify the following behaviors as increasing the risk of pet infection:
- Snuggling or kissing pets
- Letting pets sleep in the bed
- Allowing pets to lick hands or face
- Constant close proximity during infection
Pets with chronic conditions like diabetes or asthma may also be more vulnerable.
How to Protect Pets if You Have COVID-19
According to health guidelines, if you are infected, it’s important to:
- Limit contact – No petting, hugging, or food-sharing
- Wear a mask when interacting with your pet
- Wash hands before and after handling your pet, waste, or supplies
- Have someone else in the household care for the pet if possible
What If Your Pet Shows Symptoms?
If a pet shows signs of illness and has been in contact with a COVID-positive individual, consult a veterinarian immediately. Many offer telehealth options to reduce exposure risk.
Testing is usually only considered for animals with known exposure and symptoms. Testing must be coordinated with veterinary and public health authorities.
If Your Pet Tests Positive
If your pet is infected:
- Isolate the pet at home
- Keep them indoors, especially cats
- Monitor symptoms and follow veterinary guidance
- Wait at least 14 days and 72 hours symptom-free before ending isolation
Remember: Do not mask pets or clean them with disinfectants or hand sanitizers, as this can cause harm.
What About Shelters and Outdoor Pets?
Pets in shelters or clinics show lower seropositivity than those in households with human COVID cases. Outdoor exposure to other animals or people should be minimized if a member of the household is sick.
Exotic Animals and Farm Species
Beyond household pets, some zoo animals like tigers and gorillas, as well as mink on farms and pet hamsters, have contracted SARS-CoV-2. In mink, the virus can even transmit back to humans, prompting mass culls in some areas.
Key Takeaways for Pet Owners
- Minimize contact with pets during illness
- Practice good hygiene and wear a mask
- Monitor pets for symptoms
- Consult a vet if pets appear unwell
- Practice isolation protocols for infected pets
In summary, while it is technically possible for pets to become infected with COVID-19, the risk they pose to humans is very low. Exercising caution and practicing proper hygiene are the most effective ways to protect both animal companions and your household.
