Monkeypox has gained attention as a viral disease primarily affecting humans, but many pet owners wonder if their cats can also contract it. Understanding the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures for cats is essential to keep your furry friend safe. We’ll explore what is known about monkeypox in cats and how you can protect your pet.

While monkeypox is mostly transmitted among humans, it is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can spread between animals and people. This raises concerns about the potential for cats to become infected and what that means for pet owners. Let’s dive into the facts and expert advice on this topic.

What Is Monkeypox and How Does It Spread?

Monkeypox is a viral infection caused by the monkeypox virus, related to smallpox but generally less severe. It spreads through close contact with infected animals, humans, or contaminated materials. Understanding its transmission helps clarify risks for pets like cats.

The virus is endemic in certain parts of Africa, but recent outbreaks have occurred worldwide. It primarily spreads through respiratory droplets, direct contact with lesions, or contact with contaminated objects.

• Monkeypox virus belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus, which includes smallpox, highlighting its contagious nature and potential severity.

• Transmission mainly occurs through close physical contact, making household exposure a concern for pets if owners are infected.

• Animals such as rodents and primates are natural reservoirs, but the role of domestic animals like cats is less clear.

• Fomite transmission via bedding or surfaces contaminated with the virus can pose a risk to animals sharing living spaces with infected humans.

Knowing how monkeypox spreads is key to assessing whether cats can catch it and what precautions to take.

Can Cats Get Monkeypox? Current Scientific Understanding

There is limited but growing evidence about monkeypox infection in domestic cats. While cats are susceptible to some Orthopoxviruses, confirmed cases of monkeypox in cats are extremely rare or undocumented.

Veterinary experts emphasize that cats have not been identified as common hosts or transmitters of monkeypox. However, caution is advised when pets are exposed to infected humans or wildlife.

• Cats have been known to contract other poxviruses, indicating a theoretical risk for monkeypox infection under certain conditions.

• No documented cases of natural monkeypox infection in domestic cats have been reported in scientific literature as of now.

• Experimental studies on related viruses suggest cats could potentially carry the virus but are unlikely to develop severe illness or spread it widely.

• Veterinarians recommend monitoring pets closely if household members have monkeypox to prevent any possible transmission.

While the risk appears low, staying informed and cautious is the best approach to protect your cat.

Symptoms of Monkeypox in Cats to Watch For

If a cat were to contract monkeypox, symptoms might resemble those seen in other poxvirus infections. Recognizing early signs can help you seek veterinary care promptly.

Symptoms in animals can vary but often include skin lesions and systemic signs. Since monkeypox in cats is rare, symptoms might overlap with other common feline illnesses.

• Skin lesions such as pustules, papules, or scabs could indicate viral infection and require veterinary evaluation.

• Fever and lethargy may accompany skin symptoms, signaling systemic illness that needs prompt attention.

• Swollen lymph nodes might be present, reflecting the immune response to infection.

• Respiratory signs like coughing or nasal discharge could occur if the virus affects the respiratory tract.

If your cat shows any of these symptoms, especially after exposure to an infected person or animal, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Treatment Options for Cats with Suspected Monkeypox

There is no specific antiviral treatment approved for monkeypox in cats. Supportive care is the main approach to help affected pets recover.

Veterinarians focus on managing symptoms, preventing secondary infections, and maintaining hydration and nutrition during recovery.

• Supportive care includes fluids and nutritional support to maintain strength during illness.

• Antibiotics may be prescribed if secondary bacterial infections develop alongside viral lesions.

• Isolation of the infected cat is important to reduce the risk of spreading the virus to other animals or humans.

• Close veterinary monitoring ensures timely intervention if symptoms worsen or complications arise.

Prompt veterinary attention improves outcomes and helps protect other pets and family members.

Preventing Monkeypox Transmission to Cats

Prevention is the best strategy to protect your cat from monkeypox. Since human-to-animal transmission is the most likely route, minimizing exposure is critical.

Simple hygiene and isolation measures can reduce the risk of your pet contracting the virus if someone in your household is infected.

• Avoid close contact between your cat and anyone diagnosed with or suspected of having monkeypox to limit transmission risk.

• Practice thorough handwashing before and after handling your cat, especially if you have symptoms or exposure history.

• Disinfect surfaces, bedding, and litter boxes regularly to remove potential viral contamination.

• If you are infected, consider having another household member care for your cat until you recover and are no longer contagious.

Taking these precautions helps keep your cat safe and prevents the virus from spreading in your home.

When to Contact Your Veterinarian About Monkeypox Concerns

If you suspect your cat has been exposed to monkeypox or shows symptoms consistent with the virus, contacting your veterinarian promptly is essential. Early consultation helps ensure proper diagnosis and care.

Your vet can advise on testing, isolation protocols, and treatment options tailored to your cat’s needs and local health guidelines.

• Report any known exposure of your cat to a person with monkeypox to your veterinarian for risk assessment and guidance.

• Seek immediate veterinary care if your cat develops unexplained skin lesions, fever, or lethargy after potential exposure.

• Your veterinarian may recommend diagnostic tests to rule out monkeypox and other infectious diseases with similar symptoms.

• Following your vet’s instructions on isolation and hygiene reduces the risk of spreading infection to other pets or humans.

Timely veterinary involvement is crucial for your cat’s health and your family’s safety.

Conclusion

While monkeypox primarily affects humans, the possibility of cats contracting the virus remains very low but not impossible. Current evidence shows no confirmed natural infections in domestic cats, but caution is warranted if your pet is exposed to infected individuals.

Understanding transmission, recognizing symptoms, and practicing preventive hygiene can help protect your cat. Always consult your veterinarian if you have concerns about monkeypox or your cat’s health to ensure the best care and safety for your pet and household.

FAQs

Can cats transmit monkeypox to humans?

There is no evidence that cats can transmit monkeypox to humans. The primary transmission route is human-to-human, but avoiding close contact with infected pets is still recommended.

What should I do if my cat has been exposed to monkeypox?

If your cat has been exposed, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice on monitoring and possible testing to ensure your pet’s health and safety.

Are there vaccines available for cats against monkeypox?

Currently, no vaccines are approved for monkeypox prevention in cats. Vaccination efforts focus on humans, so prevention relies on minimizing exposure.

How can I protect my cat if I have monkeypox?

If you have monkeypox, avoid close contact with your cat, practice good hygiene, and have someone else care for your pet until you recover to reduce transmission risk.

Can other pets get monkeypox besides cats?

Rodents and primates are natural hosts, but domestic pets like dogs and cats have a low risk. Still, caution is advised around any animals if monkeypox is present in the household.