H1N1 in pets

The CDC has confirmed that 22 million people have been sick with H1N1 flu. Of these, 98,000 have been hospitalized and 3,900 have died. Now the Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has confirmed H1N1 in one cat and two ferrets. It appears the pets contracted the flu from their owners or caretakers. Dogs and pet birds have contracted other strains of flu so it is possible that any animal may be susceptible to H1N1. However, no other cases have been documented at this time.

To date, there is no evidence that pets can pass flu to people, but the number of confirmed companion animal cases of H1N1 is small. People with H1N1 who have companion animals are advised to use caution. They should wash hands frequently before handling their pet. Hand washing is especially important after sneezing or coughing. Ideally, pets should be cared for and fed by someone who is well. Symptoms of H1N1 in companion animals are not well defined due to the small number of confirmed cases. However, a pet that appears ill or displays symptoms of respiratory distress after being exposed to a person with H1N1 should be seen by a veterinarian.

The Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory is now testing pets for H1N1 as part of the US Department of Agriculture’s National Animal Health Laboratory Network. The test, originally designed to test pigs for H1N1, has recently been approved for testing companion animals. Tests are performed on nasal or mouth swabs that must be obtained and submitted by a veterinarian.