For the first time in Switzerland a cat has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Cats, like dogs, are however not believed to play a major role in the spread of the virus.
This content was published on
1 minute
Keystone-SDA/jdp
Português
pt
Suíça tem primeiro caso de gato infectado pela Covid-19
According to the Federal Office for Food Safety and Veterinary Affairs (BLV)External link, the case was reported by the veterinary medicine laboratory at the University of Zurich. The cat had been tested in the context of a research project and came from a household with a person who had also tested positive.
Other isolated cases of coronavirus infections in pets have been reported in other countries. Almost all the infected pets came from households with individuals who tested positive for Covid-19.
In a press release, the BLV said that it believes transmission from humans to cats is rare but cannot be ruled out. It doesn’t believe regular testing for cats is necessary. Infected cats do not show any symptoms or if they do, they are usually mild.
There is also no evidence that cats and dogs pose a risk of infection for humans, the office said.
However, it stressed that it’s important for infected persons to observe the hygiene rules, even with cats. This includes no close contact between animals and humans such as licking of the face and letting the animal sleep in the owner’s bed. It is also important to thoroughly clean feeding bowls.
It advises against disinfecting animals or putting a mask on them – “for the sake of animal welfare”.
Popular Stories
More
Aging society
No house generation: the impossibility of buying property in Switzerland
Living longer: What do you think about the longevity trend?
The longevity market is booming thanks in part to advances in the science of ageing. What do you think of the idea of significantly extending human lifespan?
In Switzerland more people are being referred to electrical therapies or psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy. Are there similar approaches where you live?
Swiss government backs down to industry outcry over energy security plans
This content was published on
Swiss electricity providers should no longer be obliged to fulfil strict liquidity and capital requirements to ensure energy security.
Switzerland sets aside more funds to protect religious minorities
This content was published on
Jewish and Muslim minorities as well as LGBTQ+ communities will temporarily receive increased state protection in Switzerland.
This content was published on
One in three Swiss households has a cat. So it's no surprise that the nation's cat lovers go to extremes to improve the lives of their feline friends.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.