Can Pets Get COVID from Humans?

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to dominate headlines, many pet owners are wondering if their furry friends can catch the virus from them.

What the Experts Say

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no evidence that pets can spread COVID-19 to humans.

However, there have been a handful of cases of pets becoming infected with COVID-19 from their owners. In these cases, the pets typically developed mild symptoms, such as a cough, runny nose, or fever.

How Can Pets Get COVID-19?

Pets can get COVID-19 from close contact with an infected person. This can happen when the person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and the pet inhales the respiratory droplets that contain the virus.

Pets can also get COVID-19 if they come into contact with contaminated surfaces, such as doorknobs, countertops, or food bowls. If the pet then licks its paws or fur, it can ingest the virus.

What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19 in Pets?

The symptoms of COVID-19 in pets can vary, but they are typically mild. The most common symptoms include:

• Cough
• Runny nose
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

In some cases, pets may also develop more severe symptoms, such as pneumonia or respiratory distress. However, this is rare.

How to Protect Your Pet from COVID-19

There are a few things you can do to protect your pet from COVID-19:

• Keep your pet away from people who are sick.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your pet.
• Avoid kissing or hugging your pet.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that your pet comes into contact with regularly.
• Take your pet to the veterinarian if it shows any signs of illness.

By following these tips, you can help keep your pet safe from COVID-19.