To date, the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) does not have evidence that companion animals, including pets, can spread COVID-19 to people or that they may be a source of infection. Infectious disease experts and multiple international and domestic human and animal health organizations continue to agree there is no evidence, at this point, to indicate that, under natural conditions, pets spread COVID-19 to people.
However, the CDC is aware of a very small number of pets that have reported to have been infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, after close contact with people that tested positive for COVID-19. Further studies are needed to understand if and how different animals could be affected by COVID-19
Therefore, if you are not ill with COVID-19, you can interact with your animals as you normally would (including, but not limited to feeding, playing and otherwise caring for them). Please practice good hygiene regardless. This should include not only washing your hands before and after interacting with your pets, but also before and after handling their food, supplies, and waste.
Out of an abundance of caution, and until more is known about this virus, if you are ill with COVID-19 you should restrict contact with pets and other animals, just as you would restrict your contact with other people. If possible, have another member of your household take over the care of your pets until you are healthy again. If you have a service animal, or if you do not have the option of temporarily having someone else take over your pet’s care, please keep physical contact to a minimum (cuddles, kissing and petting), do not share food with them, and wear a face mask and wash your hands (before and after) any contact with them.
