H1N1 Influenza Infection
in Cats & Kittens

H1N1 is a variant of the influenza virus. It is contagious from people to cats. The virus is known to be able to infect dogs and other animals.

Dear Simba,
I have heard about the swine flu / H1N1 virus. Can my cat Bimbo get it? Sandy Hi Sandy,
Unfortunately, yes, cats can become infected with the H1N1 Virus. The good news is that the virus is rare. According to the ASPCA and the AVMA all of the pets infected with the H1N1 virus became infected from being around their ill owners rather than the other way around. So unless you or a member of your family get the virus your cat is likely ok. However, if you become ill with the virus (which is very unlikely) you want to quarantine your cat until you are fully recovered.

According to the AVMA, cats and other animals, show signs of respiratory illness such as lethargy, fever, loss of appetite, runny nose and/or eyes, sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing. Several cats with severe disease have died.

According to the AVMA there is no licensed and approved H1N1 vaccine for pets.

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