It’s been confirmed that an Oregon cat has died from H1N1 (Swine Flu). It’s believed the cat caught it from his people.  The article linked to is from the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association has a wealth of information and I recommend you check it out.

The OVMA says there isn’t reason to panic.  You can keep your kitties safe.  If you’re feeling sick:

• wash your hands regularly
• use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
• cover your mouth & nose when you sneeze
• avoid touching your cat’s eyes, nose, & mouth
• the CDC adds, you should limit contact with your pets until 24 hours after your fever is gone

It is also possible for you to catch N1H1 from an infected pet.  So wash your hands after handling sick pets.

Keep an eye out for symptoms in your cats too.  Take your cat to the vet if your see signs of respiratory illness.  Look for:

• coughing
• sneezing
• lethargy
• conjunctivitis (swelling & redness of the membranes around the eyes)

You also need to take special care of your ferrets.  Take the same precautions as with cats and look for:

• weakness
• sneezing
• coughing
• elevated temperature
• yellow or green discharge from the nose or eyes (from a secondary infection)

Pet birds are susceptible to H1N1 and should be tested for the virus if they develop symptoms of respiratory illness.  Pet pigs are also at risk for catching H1N1 and should be seen by a vet if they become ill.  It isn’t known if dogs can catch H1N1.

Keep up to date on information about companion animals and H1N1 from:

• the CDC
• the AVMA