COLUMNS
November 7, 2009 With the exception of rabies, very few diseases are passed between humans and animals.
There are certainly some that are similar.
Two months ago I talked about Canine Influenza or Dog Flu, known to the scientific community as H3N8.
It has some similarities to H1N1, the swine flu that has become a pandemic among humans, but it is not the same virus.
So when asked whether your pet can catch swine flu, even the experts have said there was nothing to worry about.
But this week a thirteen-year-old Iowa cat made history by testing positive for the H1N1 virus.
The cat in question was the only pet in the house and never went outside.
A few days before the cat became ill, two human members of the household had flu-like symptoms including fever and body aches.
It is believed that the cat contracted the virus from its owners.
Veterinarians at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University treated the 16-pound orange tabby with fluids and antibiotics, and he seems to be recovering pretty well, as do his owners who were treated by their own doctor.
The case involving the Iowa cat has certainly captured the attention of public health officials, the veterinary community and pet owners.
As of now, recommendations are that anyone with flu-like symptoms should probably limit contact with pets for a couple of reasons.
In light of the experience of the Iowa family, you should be careful not to put your best friend at risk.
In addition, germs can hitch a ride on an animal's coat and be carried from one human to another.
It makes sense to take some simple precautions around your pets, such as washing your hands BEFORE petting them and covering your coughs. And if they begin to show signs of illness – loss of appetite, respiratory problems – call your vet.
For more information about the H1N1 virus and your pet, visit the website for the American Veterinary Medical Association at AVMA.org.
We all want our best friends to be healthy, even when we are not, when we're speaking of pets.
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