Understanding Pet Risks During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has raised numerous questions regarding the susceptibility of animals to the virus and the potential risks they pose to humans. While COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus—a member of the coronavirus family capable of infecting both people and animals—much of the focus remains on human-to-human transmission. However, the interaction between humans and their pets, especially within households, has prompted scientific investigation and public concern.
What is SARS-CoV-2?
SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 disease. Coronaviruses are a large group of viruses, some of which infect humans while others infect animals. A select few can infect both, creating a possibility—albeit limited—of zoonotic transmission.
Which Animals Are Susceptible?
Several companion animals have been found to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Ferrets
- Hamsters
Most often, pets contract the virus after close contact with humans who have an active COVID-19 infection.
Signs and Symptoms in Pets
While the majority of pets infected with SARS-CoV-2 are asymptomatic or exhibit only mild symptoms, some have shown clinical signs such as:
- Fever
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy
- Sneezing
- Eye or nasal discharge
- Vomiting and diarrhea
Severe illness remains very rare among pets, and most recover fully at home with basic care and monitoring.
Transmission and Infection Rates
Scientific studies suggest that:
- Up to 41% of dogs and 52% of cats in infected households develop antibodies.
- Active infection—reflected by PCR testing—is much rarer, under 10% in dogs and cats.
- Transmission mostly occurs from human to pet, not the other way around.
Serological surveys support these findings, indicating household proximity as a primary risk factor.
Are Pets a Risk to Humans?
The risk of animals transmitting COVID-19 to humans is considered
extremely low. No evidence supports the transfer of the virus through pet fur, skin, or hair. Rare cases of animal-to-human transmission have occurred in mink farms but not in typical household settings.
Risk Factors for Pets
Risk increases considerably in pets that:
- Share beds with infected owners
- Are kissed or allowed to lick faces or hands
- Live in close daily contact with infected humans
- Have underlying health issues such as asthma or diabetes
Protecting Pets From Infection
Pet owners who are ill with COVID-19 should take steps to minimize risk to their animals:
- Avoid close contact—no kissing, snuggling, or bed-sharing
- Wear a mask when caring for pets
- Wash hands before and after handling pets, feeding, or cleaning up after them
- Have another household member care for pets if possible
Veterinary Testing and Care
If a pet exhibits symptoms after being in close contact with an infected human, owners should:
- Contact a veterinarian before visiting in person
- Inquire about telemedicine consultations
- Only consider testing if the pet shows clinical signs and had a known exposure
Testing is typically coordinated between public health and veterinary officials.
What to Do if a Pet Tests Positive
Pets that test positive should be isolated at home:
- Keep indoors and away from other people and animals
- Monitor symptoms closely
- Follow veterinary instructions
Isolation should continue until the pet has been symptom-free for at least 72 hours and 14 days have passed since the positive test. Never use disinfectants, hand sanitizers, or masks on pets.
Infection in Other Animal Settings
Beyond household pets, other documented infections include:
- Big cats and gorillas in zoos
- Farmed mink (with documented human-to-animal and animal-to-human transmission)
- Hamsters (rare cases of transmission)
Context From Shelters and Clinics
Pets in shelters and neuter clinics have lower seropositivity rates compared to household pets:
- 16% for cats in spay/neuter clinics
- 9% for cats in shelters
This data suggests that close exposure to infected people significantly heightens the risk.
Conclusion
The vast majority of pets that become infected with SARS-CoV-2 recover fully and aren’t a significant source of spread to humans. Responsible pet ownership, good hygiene, and informed veterinary care can ensure the safety of both pets and people during the pandemic.
