(KMOX) - Federal officials announced that two cats in New York tested positive for COVID-19 after showing mild respiratory symptoms.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Wednesday in a joint statement both cats are expected to make a full recovery. They say these cases don't show evidence that pets can spread the coronavirus.
"There is no justification in taking measures against companion animals that may compromise their welfare," the statement said.
In one New York home where a cat tested positive, none of the people in the household were confirmed to have the virus. In the second case, the cat's owner had previously tested positive for COVID-19, but another cat in the household hasn't shown signs of illness.
The CDC suggests all cats be kept indoors when possible and dogs should always be on a leash during walks and stay at least six feet from other people and animals.
Earlier this month, a tiger at New York zoo also tested positive for coronavirus.