More unfortunate news has impacted cats and their aficionados, as more feline deaths (see H1N1 kills Oregon cat) have been reported in connection to the 2009 H1N1 (swine flu) virus. The second feline death in Oregon has occurred, The number of feline 2009 H1N1 infections in the US continues to grow.
Since early November, cats from Colorado, Iowa, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Utah have tested positive for H1N1. So far, Nebraska and Oregon are the only states to report animal deaths. Currently, two cats from Oregon and one ferret from Nebraska have died (see H1N1 virus found in a feline and ferrets).
The Oregon cats did not contract 2009 H1N1 from each other, nor from the same human household member. Following the trend of other companion animals infected with the virus, a person with whom the deceased Oregon cats shared a home acted as the source of infection and tested positive for 2009 H1N1.
The second cat had a medical history of chronic allergic airway disease, which may have facilitated the virus’ infection. The 8 year old, spayed female cat presented to a veterinarian displaying respiratory tract clinical signs (nasal discharge) along with dehydration, low body temperature, and abnormally colored mucous membrane (blue appearing gums, which indicates low blood oxygen). The sample of the cat’s nasal discharge evaluated at the Oregon State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory tested positive 2009 H1N1. The cat’s severe manifestation of respiratory illness caused it to expire less than 24 hrs post-presentation despite the veterinarian’s efforts to treat the cat with intravenous fluid therapy and an antiviral drug (Tamiflu).
Cats and ferrets are among multiple animal species to be infected with Swine flu. The USDA has also confirmed infections in ferrets, pigs, and birds. Additionally, China has reported H1N1 infection in two dogs (see Swine flu (H1N1) infects dogs in China).
Despite H1N1‘s association with these animal deaths, the H1N1 virus cannot be deemed the singular cause of death.
The zoonotic transmission (from people to pets, or vice versa) of infectious organisms is a relevant concern for all pet owners. Your vigilance in employing appropriate hygienic habits may prevent your pet from being infected with viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
Practice good sanitary habits by frequently washing your hands and covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough. If you are sick, avoid close contact with others, including your animal companions. Closely monitor your pet for clinical signs of illness, especially respiratory tract signs. Sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, increased respiratory effort, lethargy, and decreased appetite can indicate respiratory tract infection. Should illness strike your pet in any capacity, please schedule an examination with your veterinarian.
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