The flu is a respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can affect people of all ages, and it can be mild or severe. The most common symptoms of the flu are fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and body aches. In some cases, the flu can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia or hospitalization.

Can Pets Catch the Flu?

Can Pets Get the Flu?

The answer is yes, pets can catch the flu. However, the flu virus that infects pets is different from the flu virus that infects people. The flu virus that infects pets is called canine influenza virus (CIV) or feline influenza virus (FIV). These viruses are not typically transmitted from people to pets or from pets to people.

How Do Pets Get the Flu?

Pets can get the flu from other infected animals. This can happen through direct contact, such as nose-to-nose contact, or through indirect contact, such as sharing a food bowl or water bowl with an infected animal.

Symptoms of the Flu in Pets

The symptoms of the flu in pets can vary depending on the type of flu virus that they have. Symptoms of CIV in dogs can include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite

Symptoms of FIV in cats can include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the eyelids)
  • Loss of appetite

Treatment for the Flu in Pets

There is no specific treatment for the flu in pets. Treatment is supportive and may include rest, fluids, and pain relievers. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat secondary bacterial infections.

Preventing the Flu in Pets

The best way to prevent the flu in pets is to keep them away from other infected animals. This means avoiding contact with stray animals, as well as avoiding places where pets are known to congregate, such as dog parks and pet stores.

You can also help to prevent the flu in pets by vaccinating them against CIV and FIV. These vaccines are available from your veterinarian.

When to Call the Veterinarian

If you think your pet may have the flu, it is important to call the veterinarian right away. The veterinarian can diagnose the flu and recommend treatment.