Pet cat becomes first animal in the UK to test positive for COVID-19
A pet cat has become the first animal in the UK to test positive for the coronavirus (COVID-19) after catching it from his owner, the government has confirmed.
Evidence suggests that the cat's owner previously had the virus and passed it onto the animal. Thankfully, the cat only had mild symptoms and has now fully recovered.
The infection was confirmed following tests at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) laboratory in Weybridge, Surrey, last Wednesday (22nd July).
The UK's chief veterinary officer, Prof Christine Middlemiss, said in the government's announcement: "This is a very rare event with infected animals detected to date only showing mild clinical signs and recovering within in a few days.
"There is no evidence to suggest that pets directly transmit the virus to humans. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and will update our guidance to pet owners should the situation change."
Yvonne Doyle, medical director at Public Health England, explained that this should be a reminder for people to continue to wash their hands, especially after touching animals. "This is the first case of a domestic cat testing positive for Covid-19 in the UK but should not be a cause for alarm.
"The investigation into this case suggest that the infection was spread from humans to animal, and not the other way round. At this time, there is no evidence that pets can transmit the disease to humans."
Only a small number of animals have had symptoms of COVID-19, including a dog in Hong Kong and a handful of lions and tigers at Bronx Zoo in New York City.
Pet owners can access the latest government guidance on how to continue to care for their animals during the coronavirus pandemic.
For advice on protective measures visit the World Health Organisation and the NHS. Anyone with concerns can call the coronavirus health information line on 1800 020 080.
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