COVID-19 and pets


 


We are all too familiar with the virus that has been raging havoc all over the world since December 2019. Some of us have become new parents to fur babies and have found solace in their company in these trying times. While we patiently battle this virus, a lot of pet parents have concerns about the health and well being of their furry family members. 

This blog aims to address the most FAQs with regards to COVID-19 and pets in India. Let's dive right into it.


1. Can pets contract COVID-19?

The simplest answer to this is - IT'S VERY VERY VERY RARE.

Incidences have been reported world over in wildlife and domestic animals alike but they are few and far in between. Cats seem to be a little more vulnerable than dogs. In India, no such cases have been reported in pets yet. For the few pets that have contracted the virus globally, the symptoms have been mild. 

Considering these facts that we know as of today, the likelihood of your pet contracting COVID-19 is almost next to none. Humans are pretty much preferred by this virus and as of now, they do not seem to be changing their affinity for a human host. 


2. Can I get COVID-19 from a pet?

ABSOLUTELY NOT.

Pets cannot transmit the infection to humans. It is only humans who are giving it to other humans. While the potential for pets themselves to contract this virus is extreeeeemely low, for them to pass it to humans is not there at all. 

The only thing a pet is going to give you in these difficult times is love and comfort. 

Make the most of it. 


3. What precautions must I take if I test positive?

While pets almost cannot contract the virus, it is always better to err on the side of caution. The very isolated cases that have occurred in pets world over have happened due to close contact with human parents that had tested positive. Here are some measures that can be taken:

  • Minimise your contact with the pet and have another member of the family look after them
  • Do not hug or cuddle them for the time frame that you are positive 
  • Isolate and take care of yourself (This is for everyone's safety)
  • Wash your hands regularly (like you have learnt through the course of this pandemic)
  • If you are by yourself, wear a mask and gloves while cleaning their bed, bowl etc. 
  • If the whole family is affected, you may want to consider an alternate home, foster home or boarding for your pet for that period.

4. What is canine coronavirus then? Is it not the same as COVID -19?

COVID-19 is not the same as canine coronavirus and should not be a source of confusion.

While the two viruses belong to the same family, they are very different from each other. (Just like no two family members that share a surname are alike!)

Canine coronavirus DOES NOT cause a respiratory tract infection. It only causes self limiting diarrhoea which may even go unnoticed by the parent. (That is how insignificant and mild the disease generally is)
Humans cannot contract this virus. It is only designed to affect dogs. 

A canine coronavirus vaccine has been available (Not the same as COVID-19 vaccines) for decades for this mild disease but is categorised as a non-core, non-essential vaccine. It WILL NOT protect your pet against COVID-19. Do not get conned into repeatedly vaccinating your pup with this canine coronavirus vaccine. 

Do not panic. Your pupper is very safe in this pandemic. Safer than any human you know. 

There also exists a feline coronavirus that can cause 2 different diseases in cats but again has been around for ages and has absolutely no similarity with COVID-19. 

COVID-19 and canine/feline coronavirus are as different as apples and oranges. 


5. If my pet is coughing, should I suspect corona?

No. 

The likelihood of your pet having COVID-19 is so little that there will be other more common reasons for that coughing that need to be investigated first. A simple upper respiratory tract infection or kennel cough in case of dogs is a far more common reason for a cough and will be ruled out before suspecting COVID-19. 

Canine and feline coronaviruses (NOT COVID-19) are more likely to show gastrointestinal upsets than respiratory tract signs such as coughing. 

If your pet is coughing, take it to a vet for an accurate diagnosis but do not worry about COVID-19. 


6. Does COVID-19 spread via fur?

No. 

Scientific evidence suggests COVID-19 is transmitted via droplets and cannot be transmitted by the fur of your pets. Hence, having said that

  • DO NOT shave your pets
  • DO NOT put sanitiser on your pets
  • DO NOT use any such product that claims to 'disinfect' your pet against COVID-19. Do not fall for such marketing gimmicks. 
  • DO NOT put a mask on your pet.

In summary, 
  • Likelihood of your pet contracting COVID -19 is next to none
  • Canine and feline coronavirus is not the same as COVID-19 
  • Pets CANNOT transmit COVID-19 to anyone. Not even via fur.
  • Basic hygienic protocols should be followed if you test positive for COVID-19.

While humanity is being tested in these tough times, let us be grateful that our fur babies have been spared the wrath of this virus. Together we shall soon see light at the end of this tunnel.


For further reading,



Stay safe,

Dr. N

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