H1N1 flu confirmed in Iowa cat

American Veterinary Medical Association cautions owners to watch for symptoms of swine flu

Nov 4, 2009
DVM NEWSMAGAZINE

Ames, Iowa. – The first documented case of H1N1 influenza in a cat was confirmed Nov. 4 at Iowa State University's veterinary college.

Prior to this diagnosis, the H1N1 influenza virus had been found in humans, pigs, birds and ferrets.

The 13-year-old cat tested positive for the H1N1 virus after it was taken to the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, according to reports from the Iowa Department of Public Health.

The confirmed diagnosis was achieved through a collaboration between the Iowa Department of Public Health, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Advanced Host Defenses, Immunobiotics and Translational Comparative Medicine, USDA, and IDALS Animal Industry Bureau.

In a related briefing, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) reminded pet owners that some viruses can pass between people and animals. Owners should seek veterinary care when signs, symptoms occur, the association says in a prepared statement.

AVMA says it is actively tracking cases of H1N1 in animals and posting updates on its Web site at www.avma.org.