Pets vulnerable to owner's swine flu infection - H1N1 virus can be transmitted to pets from humans

November 7, 8:00 AMLA Health Technology ExaminerVictoria Nicks

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Pig Flu Transmitted to Pets as well as Humans
AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall,File

Reported cases of domesticated animals other than pigs becoming infected with the swine flu virus have been substantiated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), according to the Associated Press. A pet cat in Iowa, and ferrets in Nebraska and Oregon have all contracted the H1N1 virus.

Risks to pets from the swine flu virus

With such a small sample of cases, it is difficult for officials to predict the safety of pets who contract the swine flu virus. The cat in Iowa that contracted the swine flu recovered, but the H1N1 infection experienced by the two ferrets was fatal. Any pets exhibiting symptoms of the swine flu, including a loss of appetite, lethargy, fatigue, or problems breathing, should undergo a medical examination to determine the proper level of care.

Potential H1N1 transmission to humans from pets

There is currently no evidence to show that the swine flu is being be passed from infected pets to humans. The transmission of H1N1 viruses between species in both directions is possible, however.