Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) spokesman Dr David Neck says worldwide there has only been one reported cat case of COVID and a couple of dog cases. But ferrets appear to be more susceptible.
“Ferrets are also very closely related to mink, and there are reports of mink getting COVID and infecting the mink farmers,” he says.
“I would be cautious leaving a used RAT test around my pet ferret if I tested positive.”
Dr Neck says ferret owners who test positive should keep away from their pet while isolating.
“A COVID-positive ferret owner should absolutely stay away from their pets as much as possible, and exercise good biosecurity if around their pets. Wash hands, wear masks, do everything to reduce infection transmission,” he says.
Rapid Antigen Tests a major hazard
While people have been focused on the virus itself, a bigger danger for pets has emerged from the pandemic.
Dr Neck says pets won’t catch COVID from a used RAT, but possible ingestion is a serious problem.
“There’s probably a risk to a pet chewing any plastic object the size and shape of most RAT tests,” he says.
“A large part of veterinary work can be removing intestinal obstructions, particularly from puppies, who just love to chew things. They really shouldn’t be left lying around where they could be ingested.”
COVID positive people should isolate from pets
People with COVID should isolate from their pets as animals may be potential carriers.
What to do if it’s too late? If you test positive and you’ve been snuggling up with your pet, then you’re in it together. Stay in isolation with your pet away from non-infected members of the household.
The RSPCA reports that companion animals infected with COVID have so far shown only mild or no symptoms of the illness.
RSPCA advice for living with pets and COVID
According to the RSPCA, anyone who contracts COVID and can’t isolate from their pets or has already exposed them to the virus should follow a few simple steps.
These are:
- 1. People without COVID symptoms should continue to practice good hygiene with their pets. This includes washing hands before and after handling animal food, waste, or supplies.
- 2. People who have COVID should eliminate or limit contact with animals and people.
- 3. If a pet has been exposed to COVID, as a precaution they should be kept in the house and not allowed to interact with other people or animals.
- 4. If a pet has been exposed to COVID and is sick, their veterinarian should be contacted for advice. The animal should not be taken to the vet unless the vet has given permission.
