I Can Has Swine Flu: H1N1 Virus Infected Pet Cat

Can your pet get sick from swine flu? The answer turns out to be yes. Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine has found a cat that contracted the H1N1 virus and got sick with swine flu:

On Wednesday, the Iowa Department of Public Health reported the first confirmed case of H1N1 in a house pet, a 13-year-old domestic shorthaired cat. The animal likely contracted the virus from its owners, veterinarians say, since two of the three family members living in the cat's household had recently suffered from influenza-like illness. Late last week, when the cat came down with flu-like symptoms — malaise, loss of appetite — its owners brought it to Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine for treatment. The family mentioned to the vet that they had also recently battled illness, which led to testing the pet for H1N1.

Link


Newest 5
Newest 5 Comments

Flux, i thought the same thing. i was under the impression that felines were particularly flu resistant because of the higher body temperature. granted, the age of the cat probably came into play...but still very interesting.

cats are weird though. i had a cat that got toxoplasmosis...i don't think he got the memo that he was supposed to give that to others not get it himself.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
I'm no scientist but that sounds pretty significant. Cats have a higher body temp than humans ( 100.5 to 102.5, humans are 98.6) Wonder how it can jump with such a change in temp? Or maybe thats normal, like i know how that stuff works. pshh.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.




Email This Post to a Friend
"I Can Has Swine Flu: H1N1 Virus Infected Pet Cat"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More