H1N1 kills Oregon cat

 

The 2009 H1N1 virus, also known as “swine flu,” has been reported to infect humans, pigs, birds, ferrets, and cats.  After recent reports (see H1N1 virus found in a feline and ferrets, H1N1 infects second feline) confirmed 2009 H1N1 infection in two cats, a third incidence of feline infection has occurred.  The two cats, respectively from Iowa and Utah, were the first reported feline cases of H1N1 infection.  Fortunately, both cats have recovered.  Recently, an Oregon cat tested positive for the 2009 H1N1 virus and has subsequently died.

The ten year old, male, Oregon cat was part of a household containing four cats.  The deceased cat presented to the veterinarian after developing labored breathing and was subsequently diagnosed with pneumonia.  A PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, confirmed the presence of 2009 H1N1 viral genetic material.  The three surviving cats showed milder clinical signs of upper respiratory tract infection, such as sneezing and coughing.  The lucky feline survivors did not test positive for H1N1.

As with the Iowa and Utah cases, the Oregon cats fell ill after a family member showed flu-like symptoms.  In the Oregon cat’s case, the family member was a child of unknown H1N1 status.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) press report about the Oregon cat does not indicate if he had a preexisting medical condition or if his environment was exclusively indoors. Preexisting conditions or living an indoor/outdoor lifestyle are factors that can contribute to suppression of the feline immune system.  If the immune system is less able to fight off invading organisms, the H1N1 virus may more readily cause infection.

This third feline infection should not cause panic in kitty loving households. Cat owners should only realistically think that their cat has been infected with H1N1 if a person showing flu-like illness has been in close contact with their feline.  The fact that the three cats with whom the deceased Oregon cat shared a home did not test positive for H1N1 is good news.  At this time, it is uncertain if the virus will only spread from people to cats.  There is always the possibility that transmission will occur from cat to cat. 

Pet owners must realize the potential for human illness to transmit from people to pets, and vice versa.  2009 H1N1 is not the only zoonotic disease capable of interspecies transmission.  Dermatologic infectious organisms, such as Dermatophytosis (“ringworm”), are more likely than 2009 H1N1 to spread among people and pets.

What can you do as a pet owner to deter infectious disease transmission among people and pets?  Practice good sanitary habits by frequently washing your hands and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.  Additionally, avoid close contact with pets (and people) when you are sick.

If your pet exhibits any signs of illness that are concerning, please schedule an examination with your veterinarian.

Related Articles

H1N1 virus found in a feline and ferrets

Swine Flu- could H1N1 infect your canine?

Canine Influenza- could dog flu infect your pooch?

Should you vaccinate your dog for canine influenza?

AVMA Public Health 2009 N1N1 Flu Virus Outbreak

DVM News Article- Utah Cat tests positive for H1N1 flu

Photo credit CDC H1N1 Images

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