Human Coronavirus and your cat

Published by Kate King at 20 February, 2020

Authorities have told us not to panic! It is highly unlikely that COVID-19, the new human coronavirus, will be transmitted through your cat.

Although the human virus seems to have emerged from an animal source it now spreads from human to human in coughs and sneezes.

Scientists have not detected any dogs or cats infected with COVID-19.

To be on the safe side World Small Animal Veterinary Association One Health Committee Chair Michael Lappin, DVM, recommends that you:

Keep your pet with you if you are self-quarantined
Keep cats indoors
If family or friends become hospitalized due to COVID-19 infection overseas or on return to Australia arrange for pets to be cared for outside the home
If your cat has been around someone infected with COVID-19 and becomes ill please let us know when you book an appointment for your cat
If you have been in China or around someone infected with COVID-19 please let us know when you book an appointment for your cat

Information specific to Australia is found here