Can H1N1 Spread To Our Pets?

With flu season well underway, the H1N1 virus is a very important topic on many people’s minds. It seems like every day, more information is released about the virus and recommendations for helping to prevent it. While obviously the focus has been on humans, there are some concerns for our pets as well.

Last week, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) issued a post on their website about a recent case in Oregon where the H1N1 virus spread to pet ferrets from their owners. There are other recorded cases where cats and birds have also been infected. Currently there is no H1N1 vaccine specific to domestic animals so it’s important to watch your pets closely for signs of a respiratory illness or lethargy. If you notice these symptoms you should have the animal examined by your veterinarian immediately.

To help prevent the spread of H1N1 to your pets, standard techniques to prevent the spread of influenza are recommended. These include hand-washing and using alcohol-based hand cleaners, covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Try to avoid close contact with sick people and stay home from work or school if you are sick. If you are sick, you may want to limit contact with your domestic pet, bird or backyard poultry until you are well.

The good news in the Oregon case is that all of the infected ferrets recovered, so watch your pets closely and take careful note to follow H1N1 prevention recommendations. If you’d like to learn more information, please visit the AVMA’s website where you can find a helpful H1N1 FAQ.

Let’s keep our pets healthy!

FooCrew Lynne