The risk of pet animals in spreading severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and public health importance: An updated review

Since the outbreak of SARS‐CoV‐2 was first identified in 2019, it has been reported that the virus could infect a variety of animals either naturally or experimentally. This review discusses the occurrence SARS‐CoV‐2 in dogs and cats and the role of these animals in transmitting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) to their owners. The data were collected from epidemiological studies and case reports that focused on studying the occurrence of SARS‐CoV‐2 in pet animals and their owners. Epidemiological studies and case reports indicate that dogs and cats are infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 either naturally or experimentally; however, the global number of naturally infected animals is far lower than the number of people who have COVID‐19. These studies demonstrate that pet animals acquire the infection from direct contact with COVID‐19‐infected owners. Currently, there are no studies reporting that dogs and cats can transmit SARS‐CoV‐2 to other animals and humans, under natural conditions. The emergence of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in companion animals (dogs and cats) in different countries worldwide raises concerns that pets are at higher risk for spreading and transmitting SARS‐CoV‐2 to humans and other animals, which poses a hazard to the public health. Therefore, investigating the role of dogs and cats in the transmission and epidemiology of SARS‐CoV‐2 will help us to design and implement appropriate preventive measures against the further transmission of SARS‐CoV‐2. Dogs and cats are infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 either naturally or experimentally. SARS‐CoV‐2 can be transmitted to dogs and cats through close contact with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infected owners. COVID‐19‐infected owners should limit close contact with their pets and follow hygienic measures.