Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

What is COVID-19?




How is it transmitted?

Current evidence suggests that person-to-person spread is the main source of infection. This occurs through respiratory droplets created when an infected person sneezes or coughs. There is also a possibility of spread via objects or surfaces that have been exposed to the virus; however, this is not suspected as a main source of infection.



As of April 30, 2020, there have been several cases of animals testing positive for the COVID-19 virus.

Dogs have tested positive for the virus. There has been only one case of a dog showing respiratory signs; however, it is difficult to confirm if the respiratory signs were directly related to COVID-19. The dogs that have tested positive were exposed to humans that had COVID-19.



Mink have also been affected by COVID-19. Two farms in the Netherlands had an outbreak, with mink becoming ill with breathing problems.

While no pet ferrets have been affected so far, an experimental study showed they are susceptible to this virus and can develop respiratory illness.

At this time (April 30, 2020), no other domesticated animals have become ill or shown signs of being ill with this virus. However, interaction with any species should be avoided if you are ill or suspect you are ill with COVID-19.



All of the information to date (as of April 30, 2020) indicates that certain animals can be infected by the COVID-19 virus, but it appears to be an infrequent occurrence. In Hong Kong, at least 30 dogs and 17 cats have been tested from homes with owners that were either confirmed COVID-19 cases or were close contacts to a COVID-19 patient, and only two dogs and 1 cat have tested positive. In total, across the globe, only 2 dogs and 4 cats have tested positive. Keep in mind that to date, there are over three million human cases of COVID-19 and only a few pets have tested positive and only three of those positive pets have exhibited signs and become ill.

It is important to understand that evidence of infection is not evidence of animals being able to spread the virus to humans. The situation is evolving and is being monitored by animal health experts around the world.


Should I monitor my pet for any signs?

Because it is rare that pets can become ill with COVID-19, there are no specific recommendations. However, there is still much to learn about this new virus, and vigilance is key. If your pet exhibits signs of illness (coughing, sneezing, fever, abnormally low energy, etc.), particularly if your pet has been exposed to someone known to be infected with COVID-19, call your veterinarian for guidance and to arrange for testing, treatment, etc. Special protocols are in place at veterinary clinics, including physical distancing to protect everyone from spread of the disease.





  • clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes ill, do not take your pet to your veterinary clinic yourself. Call your veterinarian and let them know are you sick with COVID-19. Some clinics are offering telemedicine or have other contingency plans in place for seeing sick pets from COVID-19 positive households. See handout "Caring for Your Pets if You Have COVID-19" for more information.


  • keep cats indoors when possible.
  • adhere to local regulations regarding park and trail closures.


Can I get COVID-19 from my pet?

As the number of reports of animals becoming infected by COVID-19 increase, concern about getting COVID-19 from them also rises. While human to pet cases have occurred, it appears to be very rare. There are no reports of pets transmitting COVID-19 to people. While scientists are still learning about this this virus, they do know that COVID-19 is spread almost exclusively person to person.


Should my pet wear a face mask as a precaution?

No. First, it is unlikely that this will protect your pet from any potential disease transmission. Second, it can cause breathing difficulties, especially in certain breeds of cats and dogs. Third, masks must be saved for use in people with active signs of infection and medical professionals.


Is there a vaccine?


