Coronavirus - Are Pets at Risk?
Tom Waterworth • March 5, 2020
Coronavirus continues to cause upset and unrest among the human population, but does it pose a risk to our pets too?
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a type of virus called a Coronavirus. This particular strain is one of the viruses from the family Coronaviridae, of which there are many! We see other strains of Coronaviridae which can affect animals - there is one called FCoV which can cause an illness in cats called FIP, and there is a strain that can cause mild diarrhoea in dogs. These do not pose a risk to other species or humans.
Can the virus affect pets/animals?
In cats, there is a coronavirus called FCoV which can cause a nasty disease called FIP. In dogs, we see a coronavirus that can cause mild diarrhoea. However, these cause little concern about spreading from pet to human.
What about this dog in Hong Kong that was reported?
There has been reported of an "infected" dog in Hong Kong. This animal has tested positive for the virus, but is not reported to have been unwell. It is likely that this animal was just carrying the virus as a "contamination". However, in theory it may be possible for animals to spread the virus in the same way that contaminated door-handles, telephone receivers etc can spread illnesses!
Will this always be the case?
At the moment, it’s difficult to be sure. The coronavirus outbreak has sent the UK and the rest of the world into uncharted territory and it’s unclear what the next steps will be.
It’s important to be on the lookout and to contact a medical professional if you feel unwell. Likewise, give us a call if your pet seems unwell.
It’s important to be on the lookout and to contact a medical professional if you feel unwell. Likewise, give us a call if your pet seems unwell.
If I’m poorly, should I worry about spreading illness to my pet?
COVID-19 is not yet known to cause symptoms in pets, but similar viruses can be transmitted from humans to pets and vice versa.
To be on the safe side, stay as hygienic as possible. Wash your dog’s paws thoroughly after a walk and wash your hands regularly. At home, clean your pet’s sleeping/living area regularly and if you’re ill, keep physical contact to a minimum… and avoid letting your pet lick your face altogether. If you are unwell, we suggest minimizing contact of your pets with other people (just in case).
To be on the safe side, stay as hygienic as possible. Wash your dog’s paws thoroughly after a walk and wash your hands regularly. At home, clean your pet’s sleeping/living area regularly and if you’re ill, keep physical contact to a minimum… and avoid letting your pet lick your face altogether. If you are unwell, we suggest minimizing contact of your pets with other people (just in case).
Concerns about exposure to the virus…
If your pet is ill and you think exposure to coronavirus has caused their symptoms, give us a call before your visit. Please also me mindful about coming to the surgery if you are unwell yourself! We may decided to take certain precautions during your visit, so it is important to make your veterinary team aware.
Keep up with the news…
The COVID-19 virus has caused a great deal or unrest and uncertainty, but do your best not to panic. Keep an eye on the news, both for trusted advice and for what’s happening in your area. This is the link to the official government website.
There can also be a lot of misinformation around, so we would suggest relying on the BBC for your news sources.
Meanwhile, stay as hygienic as possible and be sure to give your doctor a call if you’re feeling at risk. As ever, if you’re worried about your pet, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Meanwhile, stay as hygienic as possible and be sure to give your doctor a call if you’re feeling at risk. As ever, if you’re worried about your pet, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
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