Since H1N1 has become more prevalent in the United States, cases in pet animals have started to be identified. Ferrets, cats, and now a dog have been diagnosed with H1N1. In each instance, the pet lived in a household in which people were infected with the virus and showing signs of disease. It appears that these animals may have become infected by being around infected people. There is no evidence, however, that H1N1 has been transmitted from animals to people.
On October 8, 2009, the first ferret with H1N1 was diagnosed in the United States. Subsequently, on November 4, the first case was reported in a cat. The first confirmed case of H1N1 in a dog in the United States was reported on December 21, 2009.
In December 2009, IDEXX Reference Laboratories, which produces and conducts many veterinary diagnostic tests, announced it had an H1N1 test for dogs and cats available. This test, along with confirmatory tests available through specifically identified national laboratories will aid in the diagnosis of H1N1 in dogs and cats.
If you feel your dog or cat is showing signs of H1N1 infection (lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, runny nose, discharge from the eyes, coughing, and difficulty breathing), contact your veterinarian as soon as possible. H1N1 infections in pet animals can be very serious and even fatal.
There is no licensed H1N1 vaccine for pets. The human and the swine vaccines for H1N1 should not be used for pets. The canine influenza vaccine, which protects dogs from the H3N8 flu virus, will not protect pets against the 2009 H1N1 virus.
If you are showing flu-like symptoms, contact your physician, and follow these basic precautions to protect other people and the pets around you:
- Limit contact with people and pets until 24 hours after your fever is gone.
- Cover your mouth and nose with tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put the used tissue in the wastebasket.
- Clean hands regularly, especially after you cough or sneeze.
For information on H1N1 and animals, we recommend the H1N1 informational site produced by the American Veterinary Medical Association. It is loaded with FAQs on animals and influenza, is constantly being updated, and will provide you with the most current information.
If you’d like to know more about the H1N1 virus in people and how you can protect yourself, we recommend the site produced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Remember, simple precautions such as consistent handwashing and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth are some of the best ways to keep yourself free from many diseases.
We want you and your pets to stay healthy this flu season, so please:
- Follow the basic precautions
- Learn more and keep yourself well-informed
- Use medical services promptly if you or your pet(s) appear to be ill
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