First covid-19 positive cat reported in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania on Tuesday reported its first incident involving a cat contracting covid-19.

State Veterinarian Dr. Kevin Brightbill announced Pennsylvania’s first confirmed covid-19 positive cat in a joint release from the state Departments of Agriculture and Health.

The 16-year-old Cumberland County cat lived in a home with multiple people who had been diagnosed with covid-19. The cat had mild respiratory illness earlier in October, according to the state. The cat was euthanized after suffering from respiratory distress.

The case is still under investigation, according to the state.

The cat is one of a few covid-19 positive pets in the U.S. that have died or been euthanized while infected.

“As Pennsylvanians have spent more time at home throughout the pandemic, our companion animals have undoubtedly been the recipients of extra love and attention,” Brightbill in a statement. “If you or a loved one becomes diagnosed with covid, take steps to keep your pet healthy, just as you would your family.”

There is no evidence that animals can spread covid-19 to people, according to the state. The virus is mainly spread through person-to-person contact.