by Debra Frank

Created on: February 04, 2009   Last Updated: February 10, 2009

Can animals catch the flu? Yes, animals can contract an Influenza (flu) virus and become sick with many of the similar respiratory and other symptoms humans experience. The good news is that usually influenza viruses are species specific. Your Cat can't catch the dog's flu bug. You can't catch your pet's virus.

Did you notice that I wrote, "usually influenza viruses are species specific?" Yes, there are always exceptions to the rules. The occurrence of viruses jumping from one species to another is unusual but it has occurred. There was an episode of dog flu in the US in 2005 that was genetically traced back to an equine (horse) influenza virus. Do you remember the swine flu scare of the 1970's? It was an isolated outbreak of pig influenza in people. It was feared the swine flu would be a very dangerous strain of influenza, but it did not spread. The most recent scare, bird flu, is caused by an influenza virus labeled H5N1. This virus was found in Asia where it first originated in birds and then jumped to humans. So far there have been no cases of bird flu noted in North America, although scientists do study birds in the areas where potentially infected H5N1 flocks meet with non-Asian flocks.

One unusual scientific finding is that ferrets can catch human viruses. So if you have the flu, stay away from your pet ferret or she will be sick, too. Because ferrets are susceptible to human influenza viruses, they are often used to study influenza in lab settings.

If your pet develops symptoms such as fever, lethargy, runny nose, or a cough; they may have the flu. Offer plenty of liquids so that your animal does not become dehydrated. Provide a restful, comfortable environment. Monitor him closely as he cannot communicate when he is feeling better or worse. Weaker animals can develop complications such as pneumonia. Your pet should be isolated from other animals to prevent the spread of the illness as well as to promote rest and avoid agitation.

You should call a veterinarian for your pet with the flu if:

* Your animal friend is very young. Their immune system is immature, making them more prone to complications.

* Your pet is very old, as they also have weakened immune systems.

* He has a chronic illness or is taking a medication. These may interfere with how your animal's body handles an infection.

* A high fever develops. Medication may be needed to keep your pet comfortable.

* Your animal is not voiding (peeing). This is a sign of dehydration and your pet may need IV fluids.

* Your pet has difficulty breathing. A symptom of pneumonia or other serious complications, shortness of breath needs to be evaluated by the veterinarian.

* The illness lasts more than a few days. A prolonged illness increases the risk of complications from the infection.

The flu can be a serious illness for animals and humans. Influenza usually is not transmitted from animal to human, but remember that other infectious diseases can be shared between animals and pets, so precautions should be used when handling animal waste and secretions. With proper care, a pet with the flu should be better in a few days.

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