2 pet cats in NY test positive for coronavirus, 1 may have caught it from owner
Two pet cats - from different households in different parts of New York state - have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
Posted — UpdatedTwo pet cats – from different households in different parts of New York state – have tested positive for the novel coronavirus, according to the United States Department of Agriculture.
The USDA and the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said the cats are the first household pets in the country known to have the virus.
One cat's owner was known to have COVID-19 before the cat was tested. The other owner has not shown symptoms of COVID-19, but some people can have the virus without showing symptoms. That cat, the USDA said, could have caught it from an asymptomatic owner or could have come into contact with an infected person outside its home.
Both cats got a little sick with respiratory issues but are expected to make a full recovery, the USDA said.
The CDC recommends the following:
- Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
- Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
- Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
- Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
Anyone who is sick with
COVID-19 or who is showing symptoms of the disease should avoid contact both with pets and with people.
- When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick.
- Avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding.
- If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.
While additional animals may test positive as infections continue in people, it is important to note that performing this animal testing does not reduce the availability of tests for humans.
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