New York, NY—May 18, 2026— Amid public discussion about hantavirus and questions from pet owners about spread of illnesses between humans and animals, Mars Veterinary Health is reassuring pet owners that the risk to companion animals—and their ability to transmit the virus to people—is very low. The connected global veterinary network that cares for more than 10 million pets annually has released new guidance outlining key information and simple precautions owners can take to protect their pets.
What is hantavirus?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hantaviruses can cause severe disease in humans, spread through contact with infected rodents or their urine, droppings or saliva.
What to know about hantaviruses and pets
Mars Veterinary Health’s global veterinary and epidemiological experts share the following information and tips for pet owners:
- Extremely low risk for household pets: Dogs and cats are not a primary concern for hantavirus transmission. While they can be exposed, they do not typically become sick or pass the virus to humans.
- Wild rodents are the primary source: As the WHO notes, hantavirus infection in humans is primarily acquired through contact with the urine, feces, or saliva of infected rodents or by touching contaminated surfaces.
- Pet rodents: While some pet rodents can carry hantavirus, it is uncommon, and they are not considered a major source of the disease. However, they should be kept away from wild rodents.
- Protect your home: The best way to protect pets and humans is to prevent wild rodents from entering your home, garage, and other structures.
- Seal any holes or gaps in buildings.
- Store all food, including pet food, in rodent-proof containers.
- When cleaning areas where rodents have been, air out the space first and avoid sweeping or vacuuming, which can stir up dust. Instead, wet the area with a disinfectant.
Pet owners with questions or concerns about their pet’s health or potential exposure to rodents are encouraged to contact their local veterinarian.
“At Mars Veterinary Health, we understand that news about diseases like hantavirus can be worrying for pet owners,” said Molly McAllister, DVM, MPH, Global Chief Medical Officer, Mars Veterinary Health. “Grounded in science and evidence-based medicine, our global team of pet healthcare experts want to offer peace of mind to owners that the risk for their beloved pets remains very low. We encourage owners to partner with their local veterinary teams, who are trusted resources for any questions or concerns about their pet’s health.”
Local public health authorities should be consulted for the latest information and guidance as it relates to hantavirus and human health.
About Mars Veterinary Health
Mars Veterinary Health is a global division of Mars Petcare dedicated to delivering and expanding access to high-quality pet healthcare in service of its Purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS. The Mars Veterinary Health family of practices includes more than 70,000 Associates across North America, Europe, and Asia who foster trusted relationships with pet owners around the world, demonstrating compassion and expertise in caring for over 10 million pets each year. As part of a family-owned business with 90 years of experience caring for pets—including more than 30 years in veterinary services—Mars Veterinary Health makes long-term investments to support its Associates and sustainably shape the future of veterinary medicine through medical excellence across its connected care network. Learn more at marsveterinary.com.
