BREAKING: The USDA reports that two pet cats in New York have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. These are the first domestic pets in the U.S. to test positive. Both expected to recover.
*Note: there remains NO EVIDENCE that domestic animals can pass the virus to humans*
*Note: there remains NO EVIDENCE that domestic animals can pass the virus to humans*
The first cat's owners have *not* been confirmed to have COVID-19. They may been asymptomatic and transmitted the virus to the cat.
The second cat's owner *did* test positive for COVID-19 prior to the cat being tested. A second cat in the house has no symptoms.
The second cat's owner *did* test positive for COVID-19 prior to the cat being tested. A second cat in the house has no symptoms.
NEW guidance from the CDC:
-Don't let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
-Keep cats indoors when possible.
-Walk dogs on a leash, staying 6 feet away from other people & animals.
-Avoid dog parks or places where a large # of people & dogs gather.
-Don't let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.
-Keep cats indoors when possible.
-Walk dogs on a leash, staying 6 feet away from other people & animals.
-Avoid dog parks or places where a large # of people & dogs gather.
At this time, the CDC is *not* recommending routine testing for pets.
Important point below. "Keep cats indoors" guidance wouldn't apply to taking them to the vet, etc. Bottom line, continue to care for your pets as you normally would.
