H1N1 confirmed in a cat in Iowa
November 4th, 2009 by LeslieA house cat in Iowa has tested positive for H1N1 virus on November 2. The cat had respiratory symptoms and lived in a household with several sick people. American Veterinary Medical Association says this is the first report of a domestic animal testing positive for the virus.
The cat is recovering. There is no reason to believe that the cat passed the virus to any family members.
The transmission of disease from animals to humans is called a zoonotic disease. There are many diseases that are passed from infected animals to humans such as ringworm, SARS and toxoplasmosis. Good hygiene is essential. If you think your pet is showing signs of illness, please visit your veterinarian immediately.
http://www.idph.state.ia.us/IdphNews/Reader.aspx?id=8FBE90B3-4667-4960-9AF5-1B9B477A3805
Tags: h1n1 virus, ringworm, sars, toxoplasmosis, zoontic disease
November 4th, 2009 at 2:46 pm
is it still swine flu if a cat has it?
November 4th, 2009 at 2:57 pm
No this is getting serious. Can I get flu shots for my cats?
November 4th, 2009 at 4:16 pm
no need to panic just yet. we should wait to see what the AMVA says about what we need to do for our pets. right now, they must be looking for other cases before planning a prevention course
November 4th, 2009 at 4:19 pm
erhuboy.. .very funny. "swine flu" isn't the proper name for the illness anymore.
but i do admit that h1n1 is much harder to say. i wish they would come up with an easier name.