Cat, ferrets catch swine flu

A cat in Iowa came down with the swine flu after being exposed to the H1N1 pandemic virus. A ferret in similar circumstances in Nebraska has died. The virus can spread not only to humans but to some animals.

The Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH) confirmed Wednesday that an Iowa cat caught the swine flu. The 13-year-old family pet was brought to the Llody Veterinary Medical Center at Iowa State Unversity's College of Veterinary Medicine, where it tested positive for the H1N1 pandemic virus. Although this is believed to be the first case of the pandemic virus in a feline, “This is not completely unexpected, as other strains of influenza have been found in cats in the past,” said IDPH Public Health Veterinarian, Dr. Ann Garvey. The virus also has been confirmed in two pet ferrets — one in Oregon and the other in Nebraska. News station KHAS in Hastings, Nebraska, reported that "Stormy," a ferret, one of 4 ferrets belonging to a Hastings family, became sick at the same time as the family members. All the pet ferrets appeared ill but only Stormy died from the H1N1 virus. Testing was done by the University of Nebraska Veterinary Diagnostic Lab. The veterinarian who treated the Iowa cat, Dr. Brett Sponseller, said two members of the family owning the pet had suffered from an influenza-like illness before the cat became ill. The cat and the family members have all recovered from their illnesses. “Indoor pets that live in close proximity to someone who has been sick are at risk and it is wise to monitor their health to ensure they aren’t showing signs of illness,” said Dr. David Schmitt, State Veterinarian for Iowa. Washing hands, covering coughs and sneezing into an arm or elbow helps to protect all around us, including pets. When ill with flu-like symptoms, minimize contact with family members and pets as well. Pets exhibiting signs of a respiratory illness should be taken to veterinarian.