Can your pet get COVID-19? Let's talk about this!

We treat our dogs and cats at home like family members. Cuddling them and playing with them is a great joy in our lives. So as this coronavirus pandemic spreads around the world, a big question that many people have is, "Will our pets get this disease? Will they infect us?" It's very normal for this fear to come to mind. Therefore, let's talk about this clearly and precisely today.

What is this coronavirus really?

Simply put, coronavirus is not a single virus, it is a large family of viruses. Some viruses in this family cause illness in humans. There are others that are unique to animals. For example, there are different types of coronavirus that only affect dogs and cats.

However, it is very rare for a coronavirus that spreads among animals to jump to infect humans. We remember Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Those two viruses, and the virus that causes COVID-19, are believed to have originated in bats.

So, the virus that causes COVID-19 has been reported to have infected a few pets. But it's very rare . And, even when infected, most pets have had very mild symptoms. Some have shown no symptoms at all. So the chances of a pet getting seriously ill from this disease are very low.

Can our pets get COVID-19?

This is the biggest question on everyone's mind. Let's see how this affects each animal.

Can dogs get coronavirus?

There have been several reports of dogs being infected with COVID-19. Experts believe that the pets contracted the virus through close contact with infected humans. That is, the dog was infected by the owner.

Can cats get coronavirus?

Yes. Several cats have been infected with `(COVID-19)`, but only after coming into contact with infected humans. Cats in homes as well as large cats in zoos (e.g. tigers) have been infected in this way. According to research, cats are the most susceptible to the `(COVID-19)` virus among animals. They have some ability to show symptoms and spread the disease to other cats. Cats infected in this way have shown mild to moderate respiratory symptoms.

What about other pets?

Ferrets can get COVID-19 and can spread it to other ferrets. However, animals like chickens and pigs do not appear to be at risk from the virus.

Is there a chance we can get COVID-19 from a pet?

Here's something to remember. The risk of you getting COVID-19 from your pet is very low. Although there have been a few cases of animals passing the virus to humans, it is very rare. You are much more likely to get the virus from another person than from your pet. Therefore, our focus should be on maintaining social distancing.

How can you protect yourself and your pets?

Let's talk about this in two parts. One, things to do when everyone in the household is healthy. And the other, things to do when you or someone in the household has symptoms of `(COVID-19)`.

1. If everyone at home is healthy

If no one in your household has symptoms of `(COVID-19)`, you can stay with your pet as usual. There is nothing to be afraid of. Go for a walk with it, feed it, play with it. However, there are some good health habits that we should follow when interacting with animals in general. By following these, you can protect yourself not only from `(COVID-19)`, but also from other germs that can be transmitted from animals.

2. If you have COVID-19 symptoms

If you have symptoms of `(COVID-19)`, it is best to stay away from other people and your pets as well.

• If possible, assign someone else at home to care for your pet.
• If you live alone, wash your hands thoroughly before and after feeding your pet.
• Do not cuddle, pet, kiss, or lick your pet during this time.
• It is safe to return your pet to your home after at least a week has passed since your symptoms began, your symptoms have significantly improved, and you have been fever-free for three days without fever-reducing medication. If you have any doubts about this, consult your doctor .

3. If you suspect your pet has COVID-19

If your veterinarian confirms that your pet has been infected with `(COVID-19)`, don't panic.

• If medical treatment is not required, the veterinarian advises keeping the pet at home.
• Never put masks on animals.
• If possible, keep your pet in a separate room (e.g., laundry room, bathroom) away from other people and animals in the home.
• Wear gloves and a mask when cleaning his/her area. Clean his/her bowls, toys, and bedding thoroughly with disinfectant. Wash your hands thoroughly after doing all of this.
• Stay in touch with your veterinarian. If you notice any new symptoms or if your pet's condition worsens, call and schedule an appointment before taking them to the clinic.