Can Your Furry Buddy Catch Covid‑19 From You?
It turns out that your beloved dog or cat might just be picking up the virus from your own coughs and sneezes. Dr Els Broens from Utrecht University says about one pet in five can contract Covid‑19 from its owner, but they rarely get any sick.
The Nuts and Bolts of the Study
- 156 dogs and 154 cats were tested
- Participants came from 196 households where humans had already been confirmed with Covid‑19
- The findings were published at the European Congress of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
What the Numbers Show
- Approximately 17 % of the animals (31 cats and 23 dogs) had antibodies, meaning they had been infected sometime in the past
- Only 4.2 % – six cats and seven dogs – had an active viral load detected by a PCR test
Recovery and No Spread Between Pets
Those few animals that tested positive recovered quickly and did not spread the virus to other pets in the same household. The study indicates pets are not major reservoirs for the disease.
Why Do Pets Get Infected?
It’s likely the close, affectionate interactions that pet owners share. “They’re right in your lap, sleeping in your bed, and even licking you,” Broens notes. Its “tight bond” creates a perfect piggy‑back ride for the pathogen.
Other Mammals? The Minks Take the Spotlight
Only minks have been confirmed to pass Covid‑19 back to humans after catching it from people. Cat and dog infections stay contained within their species.
Bottom Line for Pet Lovers
- Keep your furry friends healthy, just as you would yourself, especially if you’re feeling under the weather
- It’s a good idea for those who suspect they’re contagious to give their pets a little extra space
- Most pets won’t get seriously ill, so a quick sniffin’ and a friendly cuddle can still be part of a caring routine—just keep an eye out for their health
After all, love is a two‑way street—so let’s make sure it doesn’t become a way to share viruses.
