Cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs

Cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs
Cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs

Household cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs, a new study has warned.

Researchers from the University of Minnesota looked at the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 – the virus that causes Covid-19 – in the two most popular pets, dogs and cats.

They found that eight per cent of cats have antibodies for the virus, suggesting they've previously been infected.

However, less than one per cent of dogs were found to have these antibodies, suggesting they may be less susceptible to the virus.

Hinh Ly, co-author of the study, said: 'Because companion animals can be the source of a range of infectious diseases, determining how susceptible the two most popular pet species in the United States are to SARS-CoV-2 — and how prevalent the disease may be among them — could have significant impacts for both human and animal health.'

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Household cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs, a new study has warned

Household cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs, a new study has warned

In the study, the team looked at samples from blood serum collected from 239 cats and 510 dogs between mid-April and mid-June 2020.

Two new serological tests were developed to look for the presence of antibodies, which indicate that an animal has previously been infected with the virus.

The tests revealed that eight per cent of the cats had antibodies in their blood serum.

However, less than one per cent tested positive for antibodies, suggesting that cats may be more susceptible than dogs.

In the study, the team looked at samples from blood serum collected from 239 cats and 510 dogs between mid-April and mid-June 2020 (stock image)

In the study, the team looked at samples from blood serum collected from 239 cats and 510 dogs between mid-April and mid-June 2020

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