Pet cat tests positive for coronavirus in UK

A pet cat has tested positive for coronavirus in the UK as it showed some symptoms.

Experts say that it is the first confirmed case of Covid-19 in an animal in the UK. fortunately, it does not mean the infection can be transmitted to people by their pets.

It was thought that the pet cat contracted the virus from its owner, who had earlier tested positive. Both the owner and the cat have now recovered.

Health officials say that the case is not an alarming thing.

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UK chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss said: “This is a very rare event, with infected animals detected to date only showing mild clinical signs and recovering within 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, Public Health England’s director for health protection, recommended people to wash their hands properly before and after contact with animals.

A small number of confirmed cases in pets have been reported in other countries in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Daniella Dos Santos, President of the British Veterinary Association, said: “Our advice to pet owners who have Covid-19 or who are self-isolating with symptoms remains to restrict contact with their pets as a precautionary measure and to practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing.

“We also recommend that owners who are confirmed or suspected to have Covid-19 should keep their cat indoors if possible, but only if the cat is happy to be kept indoors. Some cats cannot stay indoors due to stress-related medical reasons.”