The virus responsible for COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, is primarily known for human-to-human transmission, but it can also infect domestic animals. Cats are susceptible to the infection, typically acquiring it from an infected person in the household. While cats can contract the virus, the resulting illness is usually mild or entirely asymptomatic, with severe cases being rare.
Feline Susceptibility and Symptoms
The ability of cats to contract SARS-CoV-2 is linked to the presence of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor on their cells. This receptor acts as the entry point for the virus. The feline version of the ACE2 receptor has an amino acid structure that allows the virus to bind effectively, similar to the human receptor.
When clinical signs appear, they are generally mild and affect the respiratory or digestive systems. Common symptoms include lethargy, sneezing, coughing, and nasal or eye discharge. Some infected cats have also shown gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhea.
In uncommon situations, the illness can become more serious, sometimes leading to respiratory distress or bronchial pneumonia. However, the majority of documented cases involve full recovery without intensive veterinary intervention. Many cats that test positive were only tested because their owners were ill, having shown no symptoms themselves.
Understanding Transmission Between Species
Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 involving cats most frequently occurs as reverse zoonosis, where the virus moves from infected humans to their pets. This generally happens through close contact between a sick owner and their cat, such as petting, snuggling, or sharing sleeping spaces. Studies confirm cases where the genetic sequence of the virus found in the cat was nearly identical to that of the infected owner, supporting this direct transmission pathway.
The risk of a cat transmitting the virus back to a human is considered very low. While one documented case suggests a cat may have transmitted the virus to a veterinarian, such incidents are rare. Studies indicate that infected cats shed viable virus for a relatively short period, which limits the window for potential spread.
Cats can also transmit the virus to other cats, and this cat-to-cat transmission is considered efficient, particularly in multi-cat environments. The virus can spread through aerosols or contaminated surfaces. If one cat in a household is infected, it is possible for other feline residents to contract the virus.
Testing, Care, and Prevention Measures
Routine testing of cats for SARS-CoV-2 is not broadly recommended by veterinary experts. Testing is typically reserved for pets that display symptoms consistent with the infection, especially if they have had close contact with an infected person. Testing should only be done after other common causes of illness have been ruled out. Any testing requires consultation with public health officials, as presumptive positive results often require confirmation by specialized laboratories.
Care for an infected cat is usually supportive, focusing on rest and adequate hydration. Because the illness is generally mild, most cats recover at home without specific antiviral treatment. If a cat is diagnosed with the virus, owners should follow the veterinarian’s advice regarding isolation to prevent further transmission to other animals.
Owners can take practical steps to protect their pets and minimize the risk of infection. If a person in the household is sick with COVID-19, they should restrict contact with the cat, just as they would with other people. This includes avoiding close interactions like petting, snuggling, kissing, and sharing food.
If the infected person is the cat’s sole caregiver, they should wear a face mask and practice strict hand hygiene. They must wash thoroughly before and after handling the pet, its food, or its bowls. Keeping infected cats indoors is also advised to prevent them from spreading the virus to other animals. Having a preparedness plan in place, including lining up another person to care for the cat if the owner becomes too ill, helps ensure the pet’s continuous well-being.