Coronaviruses belong to a family of viruses called Coronaviridae, and can be divided into alpha, beta, gamma and delta. The first two infect mammals while the last two infect fish and birds. In dogs, coronavirus infection causes diarrhea, while in cats it can cause feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), both being alpha viruses. These coronaviruses are not associated with the coronavirus outbreak we are seeing in people. The most recently detected coronaviruses capable of infecting humans and associated with respiratory syndromes belong to beta-viruses and, although we know that the 2002 and 2012 outbreaks originated in bats, the origin of this new coronavirus is not yet clear.
COVID19 and company animals: is there a risk of infection and transmission?
So far, there is no evidence that company animals (dogs and cats) can become infected or can transmit the virus. The case of the dog that tested positive was due to one of these situations: environmental contamination or cross-reaction of the test with the canine coronavirus. However, this situation is constantly changing and information is constantly updated.
What should I do if I’m infected with COVID-19?
Despite what was said in the previous topic, if you are infected, it is recommended that you limit contact with pets. The best thing to do is to ask someone else to look after your pet while you’re sick. If it is not possible to have someone look after your pet, try to avoid contact. However, if you need to contact them, wash your hands before and after contact with your animal and wear a face mask.
What if my pet develops an illness of unknown cause after coming into contact with someone who is sick?
Before taking your animal to a clinic or hospital, you should call to inform them of what happened so that the professionals can inform you how to proceed.
Despite everything, information regarding COVID19 and companion animals is constantly evolving and new data emerges every day. The virus can mutate and what is true at the time of this publication may no longer be true in the near future.
Vet.Point – Oeiras Veterinary Clinic
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