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Kitties can get swine flu, after all!
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Cats CAN get swine flu
Photo: Jupiter Images
Early reports of the H1N1, or "swine flu", virus spawned questions of veterinarians and doctors from pet owners around the world. Those questions of "can my cat get the flu?" were answered with a distinct "no" or a more uncertain "it's highly unlikely" in many newspapers and programs.
However, a furry feline in Iowa has a different answer, as the 13-year-old housecat was diagnosed with H1N1 on Wednesday, Nov. 4.
Two of the three human members of his family had the virus and, perhaps because his advanced age might mean a weakened immune system, he started showing symptoms shortly after.
This is only the first known instance of a pet contracting the virus, but it may not be the last. Doctors and vets agree in the precautions to take around humans and pets while the H1N1 strain is still active.
- Wash your hands often
- Cover your coughs and sneezes, even around pets
- Avoid contact with others (including pets) when you're sick.
If you have recently had the flu and are concerned for your pet's safety, watch for the following signs and take kitty to the vet if any symptoms are present:
- Lethargy
- Trouble breathing
- Loss of appetite
Pet lovers can rest easy in this case, though, because the Iowa cat is doing well currently. He's taking it easy and resting with his family, who are also recovering well.
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