The infection was confirmed following tests at the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) laboratory in Weybridge on Wednesday 22 July.
Although this is the first confirmed case of an animal infection with the coronavirus strain in the UK, there is no evidence to suggest that the animal was involved in transmission of the disease to its owners or that pets or other domestic animals are able to transmit the virus to people.
It’s believed the cat contracted the coronavirus from its owners who had previously tested positive for COVID-19.
The cat and its owners have since made a full recovery and there was no transmission to other animals or people in the household.
Chief Veterinary Officer Christine Middlemiss said this is a very rare event with infected animals detected to date only showing mild clinical signs and recovering within in a few days.
“There is no evidence to suggest that pets directly transmit the virus to humans. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and will update our guidance to pet owners should the situation change,” she said.
Yvonne Doyle, Medical Director at Public Health England, said it should not be a cause for alarm.
“The investigation into this case suggests that the infection was spread from humans to animal, and not the other way round. At this time, there is no evidence that pets can transmit the disease to humans.
“In line with the general advice on fighting coronavirus, you should wash your hands regularly, including before and after contact with animals,” she said.
Pet owners can access the latest government guidance on how to continue to care for their animals during the pandemic.
The case has been reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health in line with international commitments. There have been a very small number of confirmed cases in pets in other countries in Europe, North America and Asia.
