Pet ownership can be tricky, especially if you aren't a natural caregiver. However, knowing how to look after animals is essential to making sure that your pet lives a long, healthy, and comfortable life. On this website, you will be able to find out all kinds of great information about pets, since every species is different and unique. Check out these posts for awesome information that could help you to know which animal is right for you, and which varieties tend to need the most care. After all, doing your research ahead of time could really pay off in the end.
You may have heard a lot about the recent outbreak of novel coronavirus and its connection to animals and wonder if you should also be concerned about your pet. However, while both dogs and cats suffer from their own versions of coronaviruses, these aren't necessarily a concern for humans. Here is more information about novel coronavirus, canine and feline coronavirus, and the precautions you should take for either one.
What Is a Coronavirus?
Coronavirus is actually a description of the appearance and shape of a certain classification of viruses. These viruses are extremely common and cause a wide variety of different illnesses, including several versions of the common cold among other diseases. Some of these diseases are fairly mild, while others are more serious. Most of these viruses are fairly contagious, and many are spread through coughing and sneezing.
What Is Canine Coronavirus?
One type of canine coronavirus affects your dog's intestinal tract and often causes mild diarrhea and lethargy. Most dogs get better with a little supportive care and medications. Another type of canine coronavirus affects the respiratory system and is one of the many respiratory diseases that contribute to "kennel cough." Both versions are highly contagious and easily spread between dogs, especially in high-density areas and through feces.
Do Cats Get Coronavirus?
Cats also get at least two types of coronavirus, and their version is particularly nasty. Sometimes, it leads to fatal feline infectious peritonitis (FIP). Like dogs, the feline version also affects the intestinal tract, especially in young animals. In most cases, the disease clears up on its own in a few days with only a small percentage moving on to acquire FIP.
How Can One Prevent Spreading Illness to Pets?
Chances are that you will not catch either canine or feline coronaviruses from your pets, nor will they catch any coronaviruses that affect you. However, you should still take precautions when you or they are sick and limit personal contact. Always wash your hands after handling a sick pet and wear gloves whenever you handle feces or clean the litterbox. This also helps reduce the chance of other types of infections, such as by bacteria like E. Coli.
While much is still not known about the latest human outbreak of the novel coronavirus, you likely don't have to worry about either your pet getting sick from it or you catching it from your pet. Coronavirus vaccinations are available for both the cat and dog versions, but they have risks and you should consult your veterinarian for more information in order to make an informed choice. Any time your pet seems sick for whatever reason, contact a veterinary hospital like Sylvan Corners Pet Hospital for advice.