The coronavirus has already been detected in dogs, cats, ferrets, mink and even tigers.
But can owners get infected from their pets?
Pets can become infected with the coronavirus * from their owners.
However, such cases have so far been very rare.
Cats and ferrets are more likely to be affected
, dogs are less susceptible.
Only a few of the animals that tested positive showed symptoms.
But cats in particular show similar disease courses as humans.
Symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, coughing, and shallow breathing.
However, the condition of the animals improved days after the onset of the disease.
Animal deaths from Covid-19 are not yet known.
A single dog died shortly after the infection, but this one had previously suffered from cancer.
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Can humans get infected with the coronavirus in animals?
Although animals have already become infected with their owners, the reverse has not yet been proven.
This is announced by the Friedrich Loeffler Institute (FLI), the Federal Research Institute for Animal Health.
Nevertheless, the FLI advises caution when dealing with pets.
Especially if you have infected yourself with the coronavirus, you should keep your distance from your animal in order to protect it.
Video shows which animal species are particularly susceptible to corona infection
Pet owners should pay attention to the following if they have contracted the coronavirus themselves:
Let another family member take care of the animal.
If you live alone, follow the
usual hygiene measures
.
Wear mouth and nose protection when handling the animal.
A mask for the animal is not necessary.
Avoid close contact, such as hugs and kisses.
Wash and disinfect your hands before and after contact with your pet.
Do not leave the animal in the kitchen, bathroom, bed or on the couch.
Only walk your dog in your own enclosed garden
.
This must not be used by others.
If this is not possible, a corona negative person should take care of the dog until you have recovered.
At best, this person should bring their own leash.
The risk of infection does not come from the dog, but from the infected owner.
A
cat that is used
to being outdoors is still allowed outside alone and does not have to be quarantined with its owner, as the cat itself cannot transmit the virus to humans.
Your pet is showing symptoms of Covid-19 - here's how to proceed
If your pet shows severe symptoms of the coronavirus, a test may be advisable.
In this case, notify the
health department
, which will then contact the responsible veterinary office.
The tests are the same as for humans.
The result is now notifiable in order to gain an overview of the infection process in animals.
However, a positive result has no consequence for the owner.
The animal does not have to be taken out of the family.
(cw) * Merkur.de is an offer from IPPEN.MEDIA.
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