This page was last updated on Thursday, July 2 at 4:25 p.m.
We know that pet owners are concerned about COVID-19, and we want to ensure that Atlanta’s pet owners are up-to-date with the current information regarding their pet’s well-being. We are following guidelines from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and are encouraging you to do the same during this time. We’re also doing our best to keep this page updated with the most accurate information from the CDC. You can visit the CDC’s website for complete information regarding your pet and COVID-19.
Can pets contract COVID-19?
There is still a lot that needs to be learned about the virus that causes COVID-19, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations.
According to the CDC, they are aware of a small number of pets, including dogs and cats, to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. Only a few of the pets reported to be positive showed signs of illness. If you are sick with COVID-19, you should restrict contact with your pets, just like you would with people.
Can pets transmit COVID-19?
While COVID-19 is believed to originate from an animal source, there is no known reason that the CDC has to believe that pets can spread the virus.
Social distancing for pets?
Our pets have always been members of our families. Keep treating them as such and just like us, your pet should avoid interactions with people or other animals outside the household. The CDC recommends for households with pets to:
- Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people.
- Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet from other people and animals.
- Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.
What if I come in contact with someone who has COVID-19 or contract COVID-19 myself?
If you are in contact with, or contract, COVID-19 avoid additional contact with other people and pets. If you become ill and can still properly care for your pet, the best solution is keeping your pet in your home with you. If you are caring for your pet while you are sick, be sure to thoroughly wash your hands before and after interacting with them. Do not cuddle or pet your animal, share food with your pet or let your pet lick you while you are sick.
Should I worry about my pet cat?
Per the CDC on April 22, 2020: “The first confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) infection in two pet cats. These are the first pets in the United States to test positive for SARS-CoV-2.
The cats live in two separate areas of New York state. Both had mild respiratory illness and are expected to make a full recovery. SARS-CoV-2 infections have been reported in very few animals worldwide, mostly in those that had close contact with a person with COVID-19.
At this time, routine testing of animals is not recommended.”
What should I do to prepare my pet?
You should plan for your pet now. As always, you should include your pet in any disaster planning and always be prepared to implement your pet’s emergency plan. Please visit our “Who will care for my pet” section to learn more about the steps you should take today.
Have more questions?
You can visit the CDC’s website for more information on animals and COVID-19.
