‘Stop kissing your pet cats’

CAT lovers have been warned that they risk catching coronavirus if they kiss their pets.

Cats can spread the coronavirus to other cats without any of them having symptoms, studies suggest. Scientists say it shows the need for more research into whether the virus can spread from people to cats and back again.

Anyone concerned about that risk should use ‘common-sense hygiene’, said virus expert Peter Halfmann, of the University of Wisconsin. ‘Do not kiss your pets and keep surfaces clean to cut the chances of picking up any virus an animal might shed,’ he added.

Last month, two cats in New York state tested positive for coronavirus after mild respiratory illnesses. They were thought to have picked it up from people in their homes or neighbourhoods.