Canine Influenza
The canine influenza is spreading to cats. Despite going by the moniker “canine influenza,” experts have found the virus in a group of cats. The University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine’s Shelter Medicine Program’s director and clinical assistant professor Sandra Newbury recently tested a group of shelter cats in Northwest Indiana who showed signs of a virus that frequently affects dogs. She soon learned that they had tested positive for H3N2, a subtype of the canine influenza virus.
Canine influenza has been spreading across the country over the past few years. Although this is not the first recorded occurrence of the virus infecting a feline, one cat tested positive for the virus last year. But this is the first instance where a large number of cats has been affected.
According to preliminary studies, the herpes virus that affects these cats shares the same genetic profile as the H3N2 virus that affects dogs. Researchers at the University of Wisconsin are conducting a thorough genomic investigation to find out more about the virus.
At this time, none of the sick felines have ever been released from the shelter, and neither have any ill dogs, claims Newbury.
Along with excessive salivation and lip-smacking as respiratory symptoms, cats with the virus may additionally experience runny nose, congestion, and general malaise. Thankfully, the illness hasn’t killed any animals yet, and the symptoms have so far vanished quickly.
Dogs who have canine influenza may display a range of symptoms. The signs include a fever, a persistent cough, and a runny nose. Please keep in mind that some dogs may not show any of these symptoms but still be infected, and that other dogs show much more severe signs of infection. Although the virus has been blamed for some canine deaths, most of them recover completely with the right treatment.
A H3NS vaccination is available for dogs, but not for cats, to protect against this virus. If you believe your cat or dog may have this infection, immediately crate your pet and get to the clinic as soon as possible.
