Cats can become infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19 in humans. Pets worldwide have contracted the virus, typically after being in close contact with an infected person. While this possibility can be concerning for any cat owner, such cases are not common. When cats do contract the virus, the resulting illness is usually mild, and serious cases are considered extremely rare.
Feline COVID Symptoms and Transmission
The primary way cats contract SARS-CoV-2 is through close contact with a person who has COVID-19. An infected owner can pass the virus to their pet through respiratory droplets, similar to human-to-human transmission. While less frequent, studies have shown that cat-to-cat transmission is also possible, particularly in environments where felines are in close proximity. The risk of cats spreading the virus to people, however, is considered to be very low by health organizations.
When a cat is infected, it may not show any signs of illness at all. If symptoms do appear, they are often mild and can be difficult to distinguish from other common feline ailments. Respiratory issues are most common, including sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose or eye discharge. An infected cat might also develop a fever, become unusually tired or sluggish, or experience gastrointestinal problems like vomiting or diarrhea.
Because these signs are non-specific and mimic other common feline health issues, they are not a definitive indicator of COVID-19. The context of exposure to an infected person is a significant factor for a veterinarian to consider.
What to Do If Your Cat Is Sick
If your cat begins to show any signs of illness, particularly if it has been around a person with confirmed or suspected COVID-19, the first step is to contact your veterinarian. It is advisable to call the clinic before you visit. This allows the veterinary staff to prepare for your arrival and take measures to prevent any potential spread of the virus within their facility.
During the consultation, the veterinarian will conduct a thorough physical examination. They will consider the cat’s symptoms and its history of potential exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Based on this assessment, the vet will determine the most likely cause of the illness. Testing for the virus that causes COVID-19 may be recommended, but the vet will also check for more common diseases that present with similar symptoms.
Most pets that test positive for the virus experience a mild illness that can be managed at home. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions for care, which may involve supportive treatments to alleviate symptoms like lethargy or digestive upset. Only in the extremely rare instance of severe illness would more intensive medical intervention be necessary.
How to Protect Your Cat
If you have COVID-19, the best way to protect your cat is to limit direct contact as you would with other people. This means you should avoid close interactions like cuddling, kissing, or sharing your bed with your pet until you have recovered. If possible, have another member of your household take over the primary care duties, such as feeding and cleaning the litter box.
If you are the only person available to care for your cat, practice good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after you handle your cat, its food, or its supplies. Wearing a well-fitting mask when you are in the same room as your pet can also help reduce the risk of transmitting the virus.
It is also a good general practice to keep cats indoors. This not only protects them from various outdoor hazards but also limits their contact with other animals and people outside your household.