Detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in companion animals in Poland during the post-pandemic period (2022-2025).

BACKGROUND

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infects many species, including companion animals. Monitoring changes in pet seropositivity rate provides insight into viral circulation at the human-animal interface. This study assessed SARS-CoV-2 seropositivity rate in dogs, cats, and rabbits in Poland between 2022 and 2025, focusing on demographic and time-related factors.

METHODS

A total of 1037 serum samples were collected from dogs (n = 611), cats (n = 385), and rabbits (n = 41) in nine Polish provinces. Antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were detected using a multispecies nucleocapsid-based ELISA. Data on sampling year, species, location, age and gender were analysed. Seropositivity rate estimates with 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the Wilson score method. Associations were tested with Fisher's exact test, and multivariable logistic regression was applied to assess predictors of seropositivity, including species, year, and age.

RESULTS

The overall seropositivity rate was 5.1% (53/1037; 95% CI: 3.93-6.62). Species-specific prevalence was 6.75% in cats (26/385; 95% CI: 4.65-9.71) and 4.42% in dogs (27/611; 95% CI: 3.05-6.35), while all rabbit samples were negative (0/41; 95% CI: 0.00-8.60). No significant temporal trend was observed across the study period, although prevalence was higher in 2024-2025 compared with 2022-2023. The proportion of seropositive animals was slightly higher in cats than in dogs (OR = 0.62 for dogs vs. cats, p = 0.096). Age was the strongest predictor: animals aged 4-7 years showed the highest seropositivity rate (7.98%, 19/238; OR = 3.94 compared to 0-3 years, p = 0.004). No significant associations were found with gender or geographic region.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that cats and dogs in Poland have been exposed to SARS-CoV-2, with seropositivity rate levels consistent with international reports. Cats were more frequently seropositive than dogs, and middle-aged animals had the highest likelihood of exposure, reflecting cumulative contact opportunities during peak human transmission. Rabbits did not show evidence of past infection, suggesting negligible involvement in viral ecology under natural conditions. These findings support the role of pets as sentinels of community transmission and highlight the importance of continued One Health surveillance.