Protect your pets from SARS-CoV-2 infection
Cats are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 by reverse zoonosis. If you're infected with COVID-19, you can infect your pets.
Our team confirmed in a seroepidemiologic survey* of cats and dogs in Portugal and found antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in 15/69 (21.74%) cats and 7/148 (4.73%) dogs.
By performing this test will allow you to know if your Cat is infected with SARS-CoV-2. This test detects viral RNA of SARS-CoV-2 by RTqPCR.
Please note that viral RNA is detectable only in the first two weeks after infection.
Molecular test
- Reference laboratory diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2 are carried out by means of genome amplification tests (RNA) in a polymerase chain reaction in real time, preceded by reverse transcription (rRT-PCR).
- Exudate from the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal collected through a swab and/or rectal swabs.
Standard processing - Results in 2-5 working days after sample arrival at the laboratory. Clients organise and support the costs of sending the samples to the laboratory.
PREMIUM processing - Results in 24 hours after sample arrival. Includes free express delivery** . The laboratory organises Express shipping with pick-up of the package at the client's address and delivery at the laboratory.
** PREMIUM SERVICES INCLUDE AN EXPRESS SHIPPING DELIVERY FOR EUROPEAN COUNTRIES FROM NON REMOTE REGIONS.
Check here to know if you are in a remote European region.
For remote regions EXTRA fees are applied.
FAQs
Why should we test cats ?
The test should be done in cats who have had contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19.
There are confirmed cases of infections of cats by SARS-CoV-2 through transmission of the virus by humans or other infected cats.
For more info check the OIE website
When cats should take the test?
In general, the test can be performed 5 to 14 days after contact with confirmed cases of COVID-19.
The test it is based on the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 genome (RNA) by real-time rRT-PCR techniques in exudates from the nasopharynx, oropharynx and rectal swabs.
In dogs the viral load is higher in the first days of infection and starts to decrease after 15 days after infection.
What is the specificity and sensitivity of these tests?
The real-time RT-PCR test used is 100% specific and does not cross-react with other animal coronaviruses. For molecular diagnosis, we use two different SARS-CoV-2 genes as targets.
The sensitivity of the molecular test depends on the viral load present in the sample. The viral load is maximal 5-7 days after infection and from then on it starts to decrease, becoming diminished 15 days after infection.
References
*Barroso, R., Vieira-Pires, A., Antunes, A., & Fidalgo-Carvalho, I. (2022). Susceptibility of Pets to SARS-CoV-2 Infection: Lessons from a Seroepidemiologic Survey of Cats and Dogs in Portugal. Microorganisms, 10(2), 345. https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms10020345