A spokesman for the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) said today (August 7) that samples from a pet cat sent to the AFCD have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus.
The case involves a domestic short-haired cat that lived in Tuen Mun. When the owner was confirmed to be infected with COVID-19, the cat was sent to the AFCD for quarantine on August 4. Samples collected from the cat by the department tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. However, the cat has not shown any symptoms at present. The AFCD will continue to closely monitor the cat and conduct repeated testing.
The spokesman reminded pet owners to adopt good hygiene practices (including hand washing before and after being around or handling animals, their food or supplies, as well as avoiding kissing them) and to maintain a clean and hygienic household environment. People who are sick should restrict contact with animals. If any changes in the health condition of pets are spotted, advice from a veterinarian should be sought as soon as possible.
The spokesman emphasised that currently there is no evidence to show that pets are playing a role in the spread of human infection with the COVID-19 virus. Pet owners should always maintain good hygiene practices and under no circumstances should they abandon their pets.
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