Coronavirus and pets

The coronavirus belongs to a group of viruses that have long been known to infect mammals and birds. However, until recently, these viruses were not contagious to humans. The most well-known coronavirus has, in fact, caused respiratory infections in humans in recent years. It is now known that dogs, cats, hamsters, and especially mink are susceptible to COVID-19.

The coronavirus belongs to a group of viruses that have long been known to infect mammals and birds. However, until recently, these viruses were not infectious to humans. The most well-known coronavirus has, in fact, caused respiratory infections in humans in recent years.

It's now known that dogs, cats, hamsters, and especially mink are susceptible to COVID-19. Infected hamsters can even transmit the virus to humans, as evidenced by a recent incident in Hong Kong. The chance of contracting the virus from your pet is much smaller than the chance of being infected by another person.

The RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment) conducted research in early 2021. This research showed that approximately 1 in 7 dogs and 1 in 5 cats in Dutch households already have antibodies against the coronavirus in their blood. Most were infected by their owners, but animals can also transmit the virus to each other.

There are also recommendations for animals, which apply when someone in your home has to isolate due to a positive test.

• Keep dogs and cats indoors as much as possible during your isolation period. (With the exception of cats that live primarily outdoors, keep them outside as much as possible.)
• If possible, have someone who has not tested positive care for your pet.
• Avoid very close contact with your pet
• Good hygiene is extra important

If your pet does become infected, the chance of serious symptoms is small. If your pet does develop COVID-19-related symptoms, avoid contact with places where many animals are together. If symptoms are severe, contact your veterinarian by phone.

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