SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Infection in Animals

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Infection in Animals
Can pets or other animals get COVID-19? Based on current information from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) and several studies, it has been confirmed that many species of animals can be infected with SARS-CoV-2. Most of these infections occurred after close contact with people who had COVID-19.

Key Points from the Article:

1. Animal Species Susceptible to Infection:

Highly Susceptible: Cats, ferrets, and minks are highly susceptible to the virus. Cats, in particular, can show respiratory symptoms and can spread the virus to other cats in laboratory settings.
Moderately Susceptible: Dogs are susceptible but appear to be less so than cats or ferrets. Most infected dogs show no symptoms or only mild symptoms.
Exotic & Wild Animals: Infections have been reported in tigers, lions, and snow leopards in zoos, as well as in white-tailed deer in the wild.
2. Transmission (How it spreads):

Human to Animal: The primary route of infection for animals is through close contact with infected humans (owners or caretakers).
Animal to Human: There is currently no evidence that pets play a significant role in spreading COVID-19 to humans. However, there were documented cases of mink-to-human transmission on mink farms.
3. Common Symptoms in Animals: While many animals are asymptomatic (show no signs), some may exhibit:

Fever
Coughing or sneezing
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Lethargy (unusual tiredness)
Discharge from the nose or eyes
Vomiting or diarrhea
4. Recommendations for Pet Owners:

If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid close contact with your pets (including petting, snuggling, or sharing food).
If possible, have another member of the household care for your pet while you are ill.
Maintain good hygiene: wash your hands before and after handling animals, their food, or their supplies.
Do not put masks on pets, as it can be harmful to them.
There is no need to abandon or harm pets due to COVID-19 fears.
Conclusion: While animals can contract the virus, the risk of them spreading it back to humans is considered very low. The best way to protect your pets is to protect yourself from infection and maintain distance if you become ill.