It’s a question many cat lovers have: can our feline friends contract COVID-19? The short answer is yes, cats can get COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2. While it’s understandable to be concerned, it’s important to know that instances of serious illness in cats are extremely rare, and most recover fully.
Just like humans, cats infected with the virus may experience a range of symptoms, or they might not show any signs of illness at all. For those that do get sick, the good news is that the illness is typically mild and can often be managed at home with careful monitoring and support.
Recognizing COVID-19 Symptoms in Cats
If you’re worried your cat might have contracted COVID-19, it’s helpful to be aware of the potential symptoms. These can mirror some common feline illnesses, so it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian for a proper diagnosis. Symptoms to watch out for include:
- Fever: An elevated temperature is a common sign of illness in cats.
- Coughing: Cats might cough if they are experiencing respiratory issues.
- Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath: Labored breathing or rapid, shallow breaths can be a serious symptom.
- Lethargy: A noticeable decrease in energy levels or unusual sluggishness.
- Sneezing: Increased sneezing, especially accompanied by other symptoms.
- Runny Nose: Discharge from the nose.
- Eye Discharge: Discharge or excessive watering from the eyes.
- Vomiting: Episodes of throwing up.
- Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools.
If your cat is exhibiting any of these symptoms and you are concerned about COVID-19, the first step is to contact your veterinarian. It is crucial to inform them of your concerns and any potential exposure to the virus, especially if you or someone in your household has been sick with COVID-19.
What to Do If Your Cat Might Have COVID-19
If you suspect your cat has COVID-19, prompt action and communication with your vet are key. Crucially, if you are sick with COVID-19 and your cat needs veterinary care, do not take your cat to the clinic yourself. Instead, call your veterinarian beforehand and inform them of your COVID-19 status. Many veterinary practices now offer telemedicine consultations, allowing you to discuss your cat’s condition and receive guidance remotely. Your vet can advise on the best course of action, which might include a virtual consultation or a plan for safely bringing your cat into the clinic if necessary.
Depending on your cat’s symptoms and the veterinarian’s assessment, they may recommend home isolation for your feline companion.
Home Isolation and Monitoring for Cats with COVID-19
Should your veterinarian recommend home isolation, and if you are able to provide care at home, it’s important to follow their guidance carefully. Home isolation means keeping your cat at home, restricting contact with other animals and people outside your household, except for essential veterinary care. When caring for your sick cat, it’s vital to protect yourself by following the same precautions recommended for people caring for an infected person at home. This includes practicing good hand hygiene, wearing a mask when in close contact with your cat, and disinfecting surfaces.
For cats that test positive for COVID-19, it’s especially important to keep them indoors. Do not allow cats who have tested positive to roam outdoors, as this could potentially expose other animals to the virus.
During home isolation, closely monitor your cat’s symptoms. Keeping a written log of symptoms can be helpful for tracking their progress and communicating with your veterinarian. If you observe any new symptoms or a worsening of their condition, contact your vet immediately. Always adhere to all specific care instructions provided by your veterinarian.
Ending Home Isolation and Returning to Normal Activities
Knowing when it’s safe for your cat to resume normal activities and interact with other people and animals is essential. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice on when to end home isolation. Generally, a cat can return to normal activities under the following conditions:
- Symptom Resolution: The cat has shown no symptoms for at least 72 hours (3 full days) without the use of any medications to manage symptoms.
AND one of the following:
- Time Since Positive Test: It has been at least 14 days since your cat’s initial positive COVID-19 test.
- Negative Follow-up Tests: All follow-up tests for active COVID-19 infection come back negative.
By staying informed and working closely with your veterinarian, you can ensure the best possible care for your cat and peace of mind during these times. Remember, while cats can get COVID-19, the illness is typically mild, and with proper care, they usually recover completely.
