“On November 2, test results confirmed that a pet cat was infected by the H1N1 (swine flu) virus, which was most likely transmitted by human family members,” reports Dr. Murray. “The cat was tested for the virus at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and results were positive. All family members, including the cat, have now recovered.”

The H1N1 influenza virus contains genetic material from four different influenza viruses, including human, swine, and avian influenza viruses. Previously known to be transmittable to both pigs and turkeys by infected humans, this is the first reported case of H1N1 affecting a cat. Several pet ferrets also recently became infected with the virus by human family members.¹

Make sure you take precautions to protect your pet friends. Wash you’re hands thoroughly before handling your pets and if you are infected or at risk please take extra precautions. Smaller pets are far more vulnerable to H1N1 (Swine Flu) than you or I.

While no official reports are out of this effecting other animals you should still exercise caution. Remember, this virus has already jump from animal to human and back to animals a couple of times already. The virus continues to mutate and will pose a threat to you and you’re pets.

¹The ASPCA

Most pet owners have come to realize that there is a science to reading the labels of the food they buy for their pets. Although some loose rules are set out by regulators mandating the information that must be included on a label, these rules don’t really result in consumer-friendly information for the pet-food purchaser. Furthermore, most pet owners do not know these rules, and manufacturers can manipulate them to present their products in the best light. It is possible, however, to learn a few of the most common tricks about labeling, to allow the best choice of foods. Veterinarians can serve as an excellent source for this information if they understand the basic principles themselves.

I have never understood all the mumbo-jumbo on pet food labels. It just seemed like they were TRYING to confuse me with their weird alien language. Well, not anymore! I have overcome the language barrier and decoded their words for a better understanding of what is good for my Miss Kitty and what only appears to be. Never again will I be fooled by cute packaging or commercials! I will turn to the back and know the TRUTH! Hehehehehe!

You can read the full article on VPN.com

[tags]Dog Food, Cat Food, Pet Food, Pet Food Labels[/tags]