Is your pet a threat?
As of now there are no indications that the novel coronavirus can spread from pets to humans. The World Health Organisation hasn't changed its guidelines and does not consider animals a threat to our health during this crisis. Quite the opposite, it seems that all cases of animals with COVID-19 are examples of human-to-pet tranmsition, not the other way round.
News of the New York wild cats showing symptoms is in line with fears expressed by many environmentalists. Animals, particularly cats, are known to be vulnerable to some coronaviruses, so it's not surprising this one may affect them as well. In the case of dogs, all cases seen so far indicate the virus doesn't fully develop in their bodies and is not a threat to them.
In more practical terms, pet owners should be wary of the relationship they have with their furry friends. While studies have shown transmition from pets to humans is very unlikely and we are yet to learn of any confirmed case, it's best to show caution, if only for the pet's sake.
That's why scientists from China and Hong Kong, where cases of COVID-19 in various animals were analysed, have suggested that people avoid direct facial contacts with their pets, like kisses or snuggles. Also, when you stroke your cat or dog, consider its fur to be a possibly contaminated surface and wash your hands afterwards. If you own a cat, it's best to enforce social distancing for your pet as well, because the new coronavirus is proven to be easily transmitted from cat to cat.
