Swine shows up in cat
By: Sher Hann
In November a cat in Iowa tested positive for the swine flu virus, aka 2009 H1N1 influenza. According to Iowa officials, this is the first time a cat has been diagnosed with swine flu, although it has been found in pigs, birds and ferrets, but not dogs. Fortunately, the cat is recovering.
It is surmised that the cat contracted the virus from an infected human in the household. The cat apparently has not transmitted the disease to either humans or other animals.
If you or someone in your household has flu-like symptoms the week before your pet begins coughing, sneezing and/or running a fever, veterinarians recommend – no surprise here- contacting your veterinarian. Currently, the only available treatment for pets with swine flu is supportive care. And as with human swine flu, pet owners should take preventive measures, including washing hands often, using alcohol-based hand-sanitizers and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. One other caution: maintain your distance from your pet when you suffer from flu symptoms.
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