High prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in pets from COVID-19+ households

Abstract
In a survey of household cats and dogs of laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients, we found a high seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, ranging from 21% to 53%, depending on the positivity criteria chosen. Seropositivity was significantly greater among pets from COVID-19+ households compared to those with owners of unknown status. Our results highlight the potential role of pets in the spread of the epidemic.
Funding Information
  • EBOFAQ (ANR-14-EBOL-003-01)
  • IDEXLYON (ANR-16-IDEX-0005)
  • French National Agency for Research (ANR-18-IAHU-0001)
  • Institut de Recherche pour le Développement