As Canada prepares for the 2009-2010 influenza season, pet owners may be concerned
about transmitting the H1N1 influenza virus to their animals. Keep your pet healthy
during flu season. The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association suggests the following
information to help reduce the risk of transmission.
Can I give my pet H1N1 influenza?
To date, there has been one reported case of H1N1 in a cat. H1N1 influenza can also be
transmitted to pet ferrets. It is also likely that the virus could be transmitted to pet birds
and pot-bellied pigs, although this has not yet been identified. The risk of transmission
from humans to dogs, cats, rodents and rabbits is low. There have not been any cases
of H1N1 reported in dogs, rodents or rabbits. Although they are probably not at risk, pet
owners infected with H1N1 should be aware that there is a potential risk for
transmission.
What are the signs of influenza in pets?
Common signs of illness would be expected to include not eating, drinking, or playing as
usual. Pets may also cough, sneeze, or develop a fever.
How can I reduce the risk of infecting my pets?
Taking the following precautions can reduce the risk of transmitting an illness to your pets:
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