Only a small number of pets are known to have been infected with the virus.
COVID-19 is primarily spread from person-to-person, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations. Worldwide, only a small number of pets, including cats and dogs, are known to have been infected. The risk of pets spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low
What to do if you have pets.
Treat your pets as you would any other family members and protect them from possible infection. Do not let them interact with people or animals outside your household. If you are sick with COVID-19, you should restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would with people.
There is no reason to abandon or surrender pets that have been confirmed positive for the virus that causes COVID-19.
- If you think your pet has COVID-19, call your veterinarian.
- If your pet tests positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, isolate the pet from everyone else, including other pets.
- Do not wipe or bathe your pet with chemical disinfectants, alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, or any other products not approved for animal use.
- Only a few pets have been confirmed to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. Some pets did not show any signs of illness, but those pets that did get sick all had mild disease that could be taken care of at home. None have died from the infection.
- Pets with confirmed infection with the virus that causes COVID-19 should be restricted to isolation in the home until a veterinarian or public health official has determined that they can be around other pets and people.
Visit the CDC website for more information about protecting your pet and protecting yourself if your pet should get sick.