After positive coronavirus test result in tiger, public health experts seek to reassure pet owners

After a New York City tiger recently tested positive for the novel coronavirus, concern rose even more about the possibility that the virus might spread between people and their pets.

Public health officials continue to emphasize that while people who are sick should avoid handling their pets, this doesn’t change longstanding expert opinions that people won’t get sick from their pets.

When possible, if a pet owner is sick with COVID-19, “have another member of your household or business take care of feeding and otherwise caring for any animals,” the American Veterinary Medical Association said. “If you have a service animal or you must care for your animals, including pets, wear a cloth facemask; don’t share food, kiss or hug them; and wash your hands before and after any contact with them.”

The AVMA added that for pet owners not ill with COVID-19, “you can interact with your pet as you normally would, including walking, feeding, and playing. You should continue to practice good hygiene during those interactions.”

A new study showed that cats who had been introduced to the virus became infected and could transmit it to other cats. The findings have led the World Health Organization to say it will look more closely at how the virus travels between pet owners and pets. Based on the evidence now, though, epidemiologists don’t believe it spreads from cats to humans, and they urged people not to harm animals out of fear.

The researchers in the study wanted to find animals susceptible to the virus in case those animals could be used to test possible vaccines, Reuters reported.