Two cats in Brazos County, Texas, have tested positive for the novel coronavirus.
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Two cats tested positive for coronavirus in Texas
Researchers from Texas A&M University said both cats were asymptomatic and lived with people who also tested positive, according to a university statement.
The results suggest that transmission is possible for pets in “high-risk environments,” researchers said.
“We are one of the few veterinary research groups across the country conducting similar research to provide an improved understanding of SARS-CoV-2 infections in pets – ask questions such as, are pets exposed? Infected words? Can they spread? the virus for humans or other animals? Does she get sick? “researcher Sarah Hamer said in a statement.
“By actively screening pets that may not be symptomatic and living with people who have tested positive for COVID-19, Dr. Hamer’s project provides important new information about the transmission pathways of the virus,” he said. interim Dean John August in a statement.
“This project reflects the dedication and leadership of scientists from three of our colleges at Texas A&M University, working together on a One Health approach to improve animal and human health and tackle this serious pandemic.”
Hamer said researchers are still testing extra pets. She added that although the owners did not report any symptoms in their pets during the owners’ illnesses, one of the cats sneezed several days after they were tested.
The results, they added, indicate that humans need to factor in the possibility that pets will become infected if they take precautionary measures and even isolate them if necessary.
The statement comes the same week Louisiana officials confirmed that a dog had tested positive for the virus. The Bronx Zoo reported in May that several tigers and lions had contracted the virus after contact with an asymptomatic person who had the disease.
The first dog in the US to test positive for the virus died in July.
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