Can dogs and cats get the flu? Know the signs and how to help.

Question

Can dogs and cats get the flu? If so, what are the common signs and what can I do to help?

David Elbeze, DVM, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

While dogs and cats cannot get the "human" flu, they can certainly get species-specific strains. Canine influenza (the longer word for "flu") is starting to become more prevalent in some parts of the U.S., and seems to pose an exceptional risk to dogs that are housed together (shelters, racing greyhounds, breeding operations) as well as dogs that congregate together (boarding, doggie-day care, dog parks). If your dog frequently spends time with other dogs, and their exact vaccination status and how well they are cared for is unknown to you, you should consider getting him vaccinated against the flu. There is one vaccination (called the "bivalent") that is effective against both of the major strains of canine flu. If you notice any respiratory symptoms in your dog, such as coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge, especially if accompanied by fever and/or lethargy, see your vet immediately, and don't assume that he's having a bout of the comparatively mild kennel cough. Cats do also have their own flu, but it tends to be very rare. There was a cat infected with flu recently found in a NYC shelter, but to my knowledge that's the only recent case.

Can dogs and cats get the flu? Know the signs and how to help.

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