Swine Flu (H1N1) and your Pet Cat

General Overview of the H1N1 Virus

The Swine Flu virus (also called H1N1) is a novel strain of influenza that has currently been declared as the cause of a world-wide pandemic by the WHO (World Health Organization). The Swine Flu virus has primarily been focused on by the media as affecting humans, though recent developments have proven that it affects more types of animals than previously thought. Swine Flu is not affected by general flu vaccines, and contains genes from five different types of flu viruses. These viruses are:

• North American Avian Influenza
• North American Swine Influenza
• Human Influenza
• Two Different Swine Flu Viruses usually found in Asian and Europe

Symptoms of Swine Flu in Cats

The symptoms of swine flu in cats are slightly different from the symptoms of this virus in humans. Cats with swine flu will typically display an unusual level of lethargy, and show a lack of interest in daily activities. Cats with swine flu will sometimes stop grooming themselves, and refuse food. To signal the respiratory distress associated with swine flu, most cats will rest by hunching on four feet, instead of laying flat on one side. Visible difficulty in breathing is also said to be a noticeable symptom of swine flu in cats. If your cat displays any of these symptoms, and has recently been exposed to other people or animals who could be infected with swine flu, it is best if you bring them to your veterinarian for testing. If it’s confirmed that your cat has swine flu, treatment will be prescribed by the veterinarian, and you cat’s chances of recovery should be fairly good.

How do Cats get Swine Flu?

Given that the cat in Iowa was able to catch Swine Flu from its owners, it can be surmised that cats are able to catch swine flu from humans. However, it could be further theorized that cats are susceptible to any airborne exposure to the virus, such as contact with other infected animals. As of current research, animals such as pigs, ferrets and turkeys are confirmed to also be susceptible to catching the H1N1 virus.

How can I prevent my cat from catching Swine Flu?

The absolute best way to ensure that your cat does not become infected with swine flu is to avoid having them exposed to any other humans or animals that could potentially carry the swine flu virus. Now that we know that cats are able to become infected with swine flu, it is essential that you take extra precautions to avoid exposing your cat to this virus. If a member of your household catches Swine Flu, it is best if you keep them in an area of your home where they will not come in contact with any cats in your home. Since this type of quarantine can also help prevent other members of your household from becoming infected with Swine Flu, it’s best if you follow this procedure. If an animal in your household begins to exhibit flu-like symptoms, it’s also highly recommended that you put this animal in a quarantine where they will not be in contact with any other pets you may have. Though the transmission of Swine Flu from certain animals to humans may vary, it is always best if you use these prevention measures to limit the spread of the H1N1 virus.

Can cats transmit Swine Flu to Humans?

There is not yet any definitive answer to this question that is supported by scientific research. However, since it seems that most cats with Swine Flu do not display excessive sneezing or coughing, this may signify that the risk of transmission to humans is relatively low. This is because sneezing and coughing are the main ways that a virus becomes airborne, which can result in transmission to those exposed to it. There are not yet any confirmed cases of cats transmitting swine flu to humans.