Vet FAQ 2025: COVID-19 and Pets—Everything You Need to Know 🦠🐾

Though the global emergency phase of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, the virus continues to raise important questions—especially for pet owners 🐶🐱. Can pets get infected? Can they spread the virus? And what should you do if you or your pet tests positive in 2025?

As a veterinarian, I'm here to walk you through the most current, evidence-based answers to these FAQs. Let’s separate fact from fiction and give you clear guidance on how to protect both your family and your furry companions 🩺🐾.

🔬 What Is COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)?

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the virus SARS-CoV-2, first identified in 2019. While originally a human public health issue, the virus has proven capable of infecting various animals—including pets and wildlife—under certain conditions 🧫.

🌐 Where Can I Get Trusted COVID-19 Pet Info?

Stay up to date by following these reliable resources:

• Worms and Germs Blog by infectious disease expert Dr. Scott Weese 🧪
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) 🇺🇸
• World Health Organization (WHO) 🌍
• Veterinary Information Network (VIN) 📘

🐶 Can Pets Get Infected With COVID-19?

Yes—but with caveats. Scientific evidence shows that dogs, cats, ferrets, and even tigers can test positive for SARS-CoV-2 under certain conditions. Most infected pets had close contact with a COVID-positive human 🧍‍♂️🐾.

• 🐕 Dogs: Rarely show symptoms. May carry viral RNA but typically don’t transmit the virus.
• 🐈 Cats: More susceptible. Some have shown mild symptoms and can transmit virus to other cats.
• 🦦 Ferrets: Can be infected and may show respiratory signs.
• 🐅 Zoo Cats: Documented case in Bronx tiger shows big cats can also be infected.

Rodents, pigs, and rabbits appear much less susceptible based on current data 🐀🐖.

🤧 Can Pets Transmit COVID-19 to Humans?

There is no confirmed case of a pet infecting a human with COVID-19. However, cats and ferrets can spread the virus to each other, and mink have been documented transmitting it back to humans on farms in Europe 🇩🇰.

For now, treat exposed pets with the same caution as exposed people—especially in homes where COVID is present ⚠️.

🏠 What If I Have COVID-19—How Do I Protect My Pet?

If you're sick with COVID-19, your pet should isolate with you. Here's what to do:

1. Minimize Pet Contact 😷🐕

Keep your pets away from uninfected people. No cuddles, kisses, or sharing beds.

2. Keep Pets Indoors or in a Controlled Area 🏡

Walk dogs only in enclosed yards for potty breaks. Avoid dog parks, walks, and social exposure.

3. Have a Backup Caregiver If Needed 🙋

If you're too ill, have a recovered or COVID-negative person care for your pet while wearing gloves. Disinfect surfaces and hands before and after all contact.

4. Avoid Touching Pet Bowls or Toys 🧼

Pet mouths touch everything. Wash hands after feeding, and clean food bowls regularly.

5. Limit Grooming or Petting 🧤

Fur can theoretically carry virus particles (low risk), especially in cats due to self-grooming. Avoid petting exposed animals.

🐾 What About Indoor-Outdoor Cats?

If your cat has access to the outdoors and you have COVID-19, keep them inside to avoid spreading virus-laden fur or saliva to neighbors or other pets. Indoor cats should stay isolated with infected humans if they’ve already had contact 🐱🚪.

🧪 Should I Test My Pet for COVID-19?

Most animal diagnostic labs are not routinely testing pets. Testing may be considered if:

• Your pet shows symptoms and lives with a confirmed COVID-19 patient
• Public health officials request it

Keep in mind: testing a pet doesn’t change treatment, and results may not be meaningful unless symptoms are present 🧫.

🧼 Can Pets Be COVID “Fomites”?

It’s extremely unlikely. According to the AVMA:

• 🔬 Smooth surfaces (like countertops) are higher risk
• 🐾 Pet fur is porous and fibrous—less likely to transfer virus

Nonetheless, wash your hands before and after contact. Clean pet items like bowls and toys regularly. Keep pets well-groomed and healthy 🧽🐕.

🛡️ Can Ivermectin Prevent COVID in Pets or People?

No. A 2020 lab study showed ivermectin might reduce viral load in test tubes—but the doses required would be toxic or fatal in real animals. Do not use ivermectin for COVID prevention 🧴🚫.

👩‍⚕️ Can I Visit the Vet If I Have COVID?

No. If you're positive or symptomatic, call your vet first. Arrange for someone else to bring your pet in. Many clinics now offer curbside care or telemedicine follow-ups. Avoid exposing others if you’re unwell 🏥📞.

💬 Can Vets Use Telemedicine During the Pandemic?

Yes—but only if a veterinary client-patient relationship (VCPR) is already established through in-person visits. VCPR rules vary by state, and telemedicine must meet the same standard of care as in-clinic exams 📱🐶.

📲 Ask A Vet: Support You Can Trust

Still have questions about COVID and your pet? Whether you're isolating or just cautious, AskAVet.com and the Ask A Vet app give you 24/7 access to licensed veterinarians. We’ll help you manage care, medication, and risk—all from home 🐾💬.

✅ Final Thoughts: Be Smart, Be Safe

COVID-19 is still part of our world in 2025, but smart hygiene and pet care can dramatically reduce risks. Treat pets as part of your family bubble during illness, and always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your routine 💡🐾.

Let’s keep everyone—human and animal—safe, healthy, and informed 🧼❤️.