The Influenza A (H1N1) virus is a subtype of the influenza A virus and was the most common cause of influenza last flu season. Now, a Wisconsin laboratory confirmed the first case of H1N1 influenza in a domestic animal since January 2010. A six year old Wisconsin cat tested positive for the virus after developing the respiratory disease.

The source of the H1N1 case was linked back to the pet’s owner who also had flu-like symptoms just before the cat presented with signs of the virus. In addition to cats, strains of H1N1 have been found in pigs, birds, ferrets, and a dog. In each instance it is presumed the pets contracted the virus from humans, and there have been no reported cases of pets infecting humans.

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reminds pet owners that some viruses are contagious between humans and pets, and owners should be mindful of their pet’s health, especially during the flu season. Like with humans, symptoms of H1N1 in pets can include lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, running nose or eyes, sneezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing.

The cat was euthanized after it did not respond to treatment. The AVMA tracks all instances of pet H1N1 HERE.