H1N1 (Swine) Flu Confirmed in Iowa Cat
Wednesday November 4, 2009
H1N1 and Pets
The question has been circulating for months, can dogs and cats catch the H1N1 flu? While no one could say for sure, infectious disease experts felt that dogs and cats were not as susceptible as humans, pigs, and then later turkeys and ferrets.
Today, the answer is different
It has been confirmed that a cat has caught the H1N1 virus from humans. The Iowa Department of Public Health as reported that a cat became ill with H1N1 virus after 3 members of the family became ill with influenza-like symptoms.
"[A] 13-year-old indoor cat in Iowa was brought to the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center at Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, where it tested positive for the H1N1 virus. The diagnosis is the culmination of collaborative efforts between IDPH, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Advanced Host Defenses, Immunobiotics and Translational Comparative Medicine, USDA, and IDALS Animal Industry Bureau." Read full report
The good news is that the cat and human family members have recovered uneventfully.
Staying Calm
It is important not to panic. Cats, ferrets, pigs and turkeys have caught this virus from people, not the other way around.
Staying Healthy
The precautionary message is the same for pets and people: wash hands, use proper sanitation, isolate sick individuals from healthy ones, and see your doctor or veterinarian if you or your pets are ill.
Medical care for influenza viruses is supportive; rest, fluids, making sure the sick pet is willing/able to eat, and if indicated, antibiotics for secondary bacterial infections. The CDC has excellent H1N1 resources for more information about this influenza virus, in addition to information about human risk groups and antiviral medications.
News Updates:
I spoke to both the AVMA and the Iowa Department of Public Health; they do not have photos of the cat or additional details about the cat at this time, other than everyone in the household is well on their way to a full recovery from the influenza virus.
From the AVMA: The AVMA has updated their H1N1 FAQ page with the following information:
"Until recently, we had no reason to believe pets could be infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus because it is very uncommon for flu viruses to jump between species. However, on October 9, 2009, a USDA laboratory confirmed 2009/H1N1 infection in a ferret."
This makes me suspect that my cat Patches did indeed have the flu after all back in September. Coincidentally, my daughter came down with the flu shortly after we noticed the cat was ill, then I came down with it.
Fortunately, Patches made a full recovery too. She lost about 1/2 pound during her illness and had the shivers for about 2 weeks total. I ended up giving her some kitten formula for about 10 days in-between meals to stop the weight loss. I was afraid she was heading towards hepatic lipadosis. The kitten formula worked like a charm. She happily lapped up a few ounces at least 3 times a day. She's regained the weight she lost and we're working on weight loss now. She currently weighs 11 lbs and should only way 8 lbs max (she's a little thing).
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Cat in Iowa catches H1N1 - Full recovery 
