If you have a cat, you have probably wondered: can my cat catch COVID-19 from me? It is a fair question, especially when you are snuggling on the couch or sharing a pillow. The short answer is yes, cats can get the virus, but the risk is low and the symptoms are usually very mild. Let us walk through what science actually says, how to keep your cat safe, and what to do if you or your cat feels off. No panic, just practical facts.
Can Cats Really Get COVID-19?
Yes, a small number of cats worldwide have tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 in humans. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Organisation for Animal Health, cats can become infected, especially after close contact with a person who has COVID-19. However, the infection is considered rare, and most cats show no symptoms or only very mild respiratory signs. There is no evidence that cats play a significant role in spreading the virus to humans. The bigger risk is human-to-cat transmission, not the other way around.
How Do Cats Get COVID-19? The Main Route
The primary way a cat gets the virus is through close, prolonged contact with an infected person. If you are sick and you cough, sneeze, or breathe heavily near your cat, the virus can land on their fur or be inhaled. Cats can also pick it up from contaminated surfaces, though that is less common. It is important to note that cats do not seem to get infected from other cats easily, and outdoor or stray cats are at very low risk. If you test positive, the best thing you can do is limit close interaction with your cat for a few days. That might mean sleeping in a separate room and avoiding face-to-face cuddles. It is hard, but it protects them.
What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19 in Cats?
Most infected cats show no signs at all. When symptoms do appear, they are typically mild and include sneezing, a runny nose, watery eyes, lethargy, or a slight cough. Some cats may have a mild fever or lose their appetite for a day or two. Severe illness is very rare, but it has been reported in a handful of cases, especially in older cats or those with underlying health conditions like heart disease or diabetes. If your cat seems unusually tired, stops eating, or has trouble breathing, contact your veterinarian. Do not assume it is COVID-19, it could be something else like a cold, allergies, or even a hairball issue. If your cat is prone to hairballs, switching to a diet that helps manage them, such as indoor hairball cat food, can reduce respiratory irritation from coughing.
“The most loving thing you can do when you are sick is give your cat a little space. They will forgive you, and they will stay healthier.”
Should You Test Your Cat for COVID-19?
Routine testing of cats is not recommended. The CDC and veterinary associations advise testing only if a cat has been in close contact with a known COVID-19 case AND is showing clinical signs consistent with the virus. Even then, your vet will rule out other common causes first, such as feline herpesvirus or bacterial infections. At-home human tests are not designed for cats and will not give accurate results. If you are worried, call your vet. They can advise you on whether testing is needed and how to safely bring your cat in. Remember, most cats recover on their own without any treatment.
How to Protect Your Cat If You Are Sick
If you have COVID-19, the best strategy is to isolate from your cat as much as possible. Have another household member take over feeding, playtime, and litter box duties. If you must care for your cat yourself, wear a mask and wash your hands before and after touching them. Avoid kissing, snuggling, or letting your cat sleep on your bed. Keep their environment clean by wiping down surfaces they touch, like countertops and your elevated ceramic cat bowls, with pet-safe disinfectants. Also, keep your cat indoors during your illness to prevent any chance of them interacting with others. Once you are symptom-free for 24 to 48 hours, you can safely resume normal interactions.
Did you know that cats have a different type of ACE2 receptor than humans? That is the protein the virus uses to enter cells. Because of this difference, cats are much less susceptible to COVID-19 than we are. It is also why they rarely get severely ill.
Can Cats Spread COVID-19 to People or Other Pets?
The risk of a cat spreading COVID-19 to a human is considered extremely low. There have been no confirmed cases of cat-to-human transmission in real-world settings. The virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from people, not from pets. However, it is theoretically possible for a cat to carry the virus on their fur for a short time, just like any surface. So if you are healthy, there is no need to worry about your cat. If you are sick, treat your cat like a surface you might touch. As for other pets, cats can very rarely pass the virus to other cats in the same household, but it is not common. Keeping your cat calm and comfortable during any stress, like illness or isolation, can help their immune system. Some owners find that using a calming diffuser kit in the room where they isolate helps reduce anxiety for both of you.
When Should You Call the Vet?
If your cat develops symptoms like persistent coughing, difficulty breathing, extreme lethargy, or refusal to eat or drink for more than 24 hours, call your veterinarian. These signs could indicate COVID-19, but they could also point to other serious conditions like pneumonia, asthma, or a blockage. Do not take your cat to the clinic without calling first, because they may need to take special precautions. Your vet will give you instructions on how to bring your cat in safely. For mild symptoms like a sneeze or a runny nose, monitor your cat at home and keep them comfortable. Offer plenty of fresh water and their favorite food. If they seem stressed, a new cat scratching barrel can provide a healthy outlet for anxiety. And as always, if you have any doubt, a quick call to your vet is the right move.
