The most difficult viruses to control and a threat to both human and animal health are influenza A viruses. One of the biggest threats to the security of global health is the emergence of novel zoonotic pathogens, which are constantly evolving and able to cross species boundaries. Since two canine H3N8 and H3N2 subtypes of the influenza virus caused several outbreaks throughout the United States and Southern Asia and eventually became endemic, there has been a lot of attention paid to influenza virus infections in dogs. Though less frequently reported in the literature, cats still seem susceptible to many avian influenza infections. Despite the threat that influenza epidemics pose to the health of dogs and cats, little is known about the risks to humans. In this article, we go over the most recent information on the epidemiology of influenza A viruses in dogs and cats, as well as existing proof of these species’ capacity to host, support intraspecific transmission, and produce novel flu A lineages through genomic reassortment. Given the “One Health” idea and the potential for the emergence of novel zoonotic viruses, such improved understanding points to the need to increase surveillance of the role played by companion animals and human interface.
The influenza type A or type B viruses are responsible for the acute infectious respiratory disease known as influenza in humans. However, influenza A viruses (IAV) can also be isolated from a wide range of animal species, whereas the latter type only spreads among humans. The primary natural reservoirs from which viruses spread to other animal hosts, such as ducks, chickens, horses, pigs, whales, cats, and dogs, are wild migratory birds and bats. IAVs viruses frequently have a limited host range, but they can occasionally spread from one host species to another (1). Notably, many spillover events originated primarily from poultry and swine, which pose a serious threat to human health given that historically, the majority of human pandemics have originated from hosts that are avian and swine (2). This review aims to provide an up-to-date picture of the epidemiology of IAV in dogs and cats and their transmission modes in a world where the number of cat and dog owners is rising and social behavior tends to include these animal species as family members (4-6). Further discussion of their evolution and the effects of IAV genetic reassortments led us to offer suggestions for surveillance tools and the potential role that diagnostic tools could play in the “One Health” concept approach.
The prevalence of canine influenza virus is low, and many dogs have never been exposed to it. The estimate for the morbidity rate (the proportion of animals exposed to disease who become ill) is 80%. The mortality rate is low; less than 10 percent. Deaths primarily affect canines with the severe form of the illness
The first cases of canine H3N8 influenza were found in racing greyhounds in Florida in 2004. This strain is believed to have originated from a horse-to-dog H3N8 influenza strain. Canine H3N8 influenza has been identified in dogs in most U.S. states since it was first discovered in 2004. S. states and the District of Columbia.
To select the best course of treatment and determine available options, veterinarian expertise is necessary. Similar to most viral diseases, CI is primarily treated with supportive measures. Healthy care and nutrition may aid dogs in mounting a potent immune response. Canine influenza is typically treated in dogs within two to three weeks. Secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, dehydration, or other health factors (e. g. , pregnancy, pre-existing pulmonary disease, immunosuppression, tracheal collapse, etc. ) may require additional tests and therapies, such as but not restricted to:
A high-grade fever (104°F to 106°F) and an accelerated rate of breathing are two clinical signs of pneumonia that can be seen in some dogs who are more severely afflicted. Thoracic radiography (chest x-rays) may reveal consolidation of lung lobes. Although most dogs recover without incident, H3N2 has been reported to cause deaths in dogs.
The mild form of canine influenza is present in the majority of infected dogs. The most typical clinical symptom is a persistent cough lasting 10 to 21 days in spite of antibiotic and cough suppressant therapy. Affected dogs might cough softly and moistly or dryly, similar to kennel cough. Lethargy, sneezing, nasal and/or ocular discharge, as well as anorexia and lethargy, may also be seen. Many dogs experience fever (104–105 °F) and purulent nasal discharge. Most often, secondary bacterial infections like Pasteurella multocida and mycoplasma species are to blame for the nasal discharge.
How Do I Treat Cat Flu in My Dog?
Unfortunately, parvo has no known cure. But despite this, some dogs do survive this terrible illness with the help of basic life support provided by a hospital or clinic.
Treatment A parvo-infected dog will require ongoing fluid support to prevent dehydration from all of that stomach discomfort. An IV tube can be used for this to provide faster assistance, and proteins and sugars can be added to help the body recover. Prescription drugs can be used to reduce nausea and prevent the spread of additional infections.
The most important four days of the infection are the first four days of recovery. If your dog survives this challenging time, a full recovery is likely. Being present to comfort your dog can significantly speed up the recovery process. Once your dog has stopped vomiting, you can start feeding him foods that are easy on the stomach. It’s best to keep other dogs away during this time because dogs with cat flu can remain contagious for up to six weeks.
If you’re interested in reading other owners’ experiences with this terrifying virus or have any questions about cat flu that you’d like to ask a veterinarian, visit Parvo in Dogs.
What to do if your cat has the flu
Again, take your cat to the veterinarian right away. especially considering a history of cats dying from the flu virus
Between 2009 to 2011, the American Veterinary Medical Association reported 12 cases of cats infected with the flu virus, five of whom died. In all those cases, the cat contracted the virus either from an infected human or an infected cat. For example, in 2009, a cat in Oregon died of H1N1 flu complications after its owner was hospitalized with the same strain of the flu.
Moreover, the veterinarian can diagnose whether this is the flu, feline herpes virus-1, or another condition, which will determine the best method of treatment. Likewise, let your vet know youre coming since they will probably want to isolate the cat from other patients to prevent further infection.
FAQ
What is the symptoms of cat flu in dogs?
Within three to seven days of contracting the illness, canines begin to exhibit symptoms. Lethargy, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea (usually bloody) are a few possible symptoms. Generally, the first sign of CPV is lethargy. Weight loss, loss of appetite, or diarrhea and vomiting are secondary symptoms.
Can cats spread diseases to dogs?
Sometimes infected fleas can transmit parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, hookworms, or whipworms from cats to dogs. If the cat’s litter box is nearby, dogs are notorious for stealing snacks from it.
Can cat colds be passed to dogs?
No, canines cannot catch a cold from felines. Or at least, they are very, very unlikely to. This is due to the fact that the bacteria and viruses that cause colds frequently are species-specific and only affect certain types of animals. There are exceptions, but they are uncommon and likely merit a scientific paper if they occur.
Is cat flu contagious to other animals?
Although it can also spread indirectly, such as through food bowls, bedding, litter trays, or human hands, cat flu is typically spread by direct contact between cats (through saliva, tears, or nasal discharge). It cannot be caught by humans or other animals.