CDC Recommendations for Keeping Pets Safe

Many of us have a furry friend at home.In times like these, it is important to know not only how to keep yourself safe, but how to keep your pets safe as well.Below are the CDC's recommendations for maintaining the health and safety of your pet.The U.S.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United States Department of Agricultures (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) today announced 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.Should other animals be confirmed positive for SARS-CoV-2 in the United States, USDA willpost the findingsexternal icon.State animal health and public health officials will take the lead in making determinations about whether animals should be tested for SARS-CoV-2.In the NY cases announced April 22, 2020, a veterinarian tested the first cat after it showed mild respiratory signs.No individuals in the household were confirmed to be ill with COVID-19.

The virus may have been transmitted to this cat by mildly ill or asymptomatic household members or through contact with an infected person outside its home.Samples from the second cat were taken after it showed signs of respiratory illness.The owner of the cat tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the cat showing signs.Another cat in the household has shown no signs of illness.Both cats tested presumptive positive for SARS-CoV-2 at a private veterinary laboratory, which then reported the results to state and federal officials.

The confirmatory testing was conducted at NVSL and included collection of additional samples.NVSL serves as an international reference laboratory and provides expertise and guidance on diagnostic techniques, as well as confirmatory testing for foreign and emerging animal diseases.Such testing is required for certain animal diseases in the U.S.

in order to comply with national and international reporting procedures.The World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) considers SARS-CoV-2 an emerging disease, and therefore USDA must report confirmed U.S.animal infections to the OIE.Public health officials are still learning about SARS-CoV-2, but there is no evidence that pets play a role in spreading the virus in the United States.

Therefore, there is no justification in taking measures against companion animals that may compromise their welfare.Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals, including pets, could be affected.What to do if you own petsUntil we learn more about how this virus affects animals, treat pets as you would other human family members to protect them from a potential infection.Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household.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 (2 meters) from other people and animals.Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.There is a very small number of animals around the world reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 after having contact with a person with COVID-19.Talk to your veterinarian if your pet gets sick or if you have any concerns about your pets health.Protect pets if you are sickIf you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), you should restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would around other people.

Although there have been no reports of pets becoming sick with COVID-19 in the United States, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19limit contact with pets and other animalsuntil more information is known about the virus.This can help ensure both you and your animals stay healthy.When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick.Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding.If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them.If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick,do not take your pet to the veterinary clinic yourself.Call your veterinarian and let them know you have been sick with COVID-19.

Some veterinarians may offer telemedicine consultations or other alternate plans for seeing sick pets.Your veterinarian can evaluate your pet and determine the next steps for your pets treatment and care.For more information visit:What to Do if You are Sick.Stay healthy around animalsIn the United States, there is no evidence to suggest that any animals, including pets, livestock, or wildlife, might be a source of COVID-19 infection at this time.However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, its always a good idea to practicehealthy habitsaround pets and other animals.Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or supplies.Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after pets properly.Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pets health.Be aware that children 5 years of age and younger, people with weakened immune systems, and people 65 years of age and older are more likely to get sick from germs some animals can carry.For more information, visit CDCsHealthy Pets, Healthy People website.For more information on the preventive measures in place at PSL communities amidst COVID-19 outbreaks, as well as useful resources for residents and family members, please visitwww.psl.org/updates.