- Currently, household cats are not being routinely screened for COVID-19 and requires a request from a veterinarian. 
- The infection is confirmed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. 


Michigan State University

Domestic cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, although they are not considered highly susceptible. This conclusion is supported by the identification of naturally occurring infections, the presence of COVID-19 antibodies in domestic felines, and findings from experimentally infected cats.

COVID-19 in Domestic Cats

- Frequently Asked Questions COVID-19 and Feline Health. (2020, May 14). Retrieved January 05, 2021, from https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/coronavirus-update/frequently-asked-questions-covid-19-and-feline-health

- Penn State News. (2020, October 10). Veterinary experts offer advice after pet cat tests positive for COVID-19 in Pa. Retrieved January 31, 2021, from https://news.psu.edu/story/636163/2020/10/20/research/veterinary-experts-offer-advice-after-pet-cat-tests-positive-covid

References for COVID-19 and Domestic Cats 

- The severity of the infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus is largely unclear.
- In one case of a naturally-occurring case of COVID-19 in a household feline, gastrointestinal issues and respiratory issues were reported and the cat recovered within 9 days. In two similar cases, the cats showed respiratory symptoms but are expected to make a full recovery.
- In experimentally-infected felines, there was no evidence of the virus in their lungs; it was found only in the upper respiratory airways, and had no signs of disease.


Effects of COVID-19 in Domestic Cats

COVID-19 Testing in Domestic Cats

- Findings suggest that human-to-cat and cat-to-cat transmission. 
- There is no evidence to suggest that cats can transmit the virus to humans.
- It is recommended that cats are kept inside to prevent the transmission of COVID-19, as cats who are able to roam out of their home are more likely to encounter COVID-19.
- Cat owners who have contracted COVID-19 should quarantine themselves from their pet as well as other humans in the home to decrease the possibility of transmission. 
- If it is not possible to have someone else in the home care for the cat, interactions between the infected person and cat should be limited. 
- Either temporarily or permanently rehoming the cat after a possible infection is not recommended as it is not known if the animal’s level of stress can impact its ability to fight and recover from the infection.


Mechanisms of Transmission of COVID-19 in Domestic Cats

If you are a cat owner and have tested positive for COVID-19, it is recommended that you: 
- If possible, arrange for your cat to reside at a different household
- Avoid contact with your cat as much as possible if you must come into contact with your cat
- Remember to wear a mask and wash your hands before feeding/coming into contact with the cat

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