Cat Reported with H1N1 Flu - Can My Cat, Dog or Ferret Get Swine Flu?
by Lorrie Davids(425)
Up until recently, it was believed that the only beings who could contract H1N1 were pigs, birds and humans. Now, we are learning other animals may become victims of this malady.
Swine flu, or H1N1 has now been diagnosed in two cats and 5 ferrets in the United States….so far.
In a Weather Channel interview with California veterinarian Dr. Laurie Leach, viewers are told of a cat in Idaho contracting the illness from a family member.
In Iowa, a 13 year old house cat is making a good recovery from H1N1 it contracted from a family member.
In Oregon one ferret has been reported to have the flu and four more ferret illnesses have been reported in Nebraska with one dying.
Is there something you can do? For cats, not really. For dogs, there is a flu vaccine, H3N8 that may help. It is advised for pet owners to watch their pets and if you see signs of flu, take your pet to the vet. Don't allow pets to share toys, water or food bowls and don't panic, but be aware. Treat your pet as you would a person.
To see the interview with Dr. Leach, go to:
http://www.weather.com/multimedia/videoplayer.html?clip=15674&from=hp_video_2&from=hp_video_2&from=hp_video_2
Article submitted Thursday, November 05, 2009 & read 336 times.
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