I've heard about ferrets and a cat getting the 2009 H1N1 virus. Should I get rid of my ferret or cat so my family is protected?
Certainly not. This is not cause for panic and extreme measures. You are much more likely to catch the flu (any type of flu, including the 2009 H1N1 flu) from an infected person than you are from an animal. So far, all of the pets infected with the 2009 H1N1 virus became infected from being around their ill owners.
The main lesson here is that if you're feeling ill and have flu-like symptoms, you should probably limit your contact with your pets until you are feeling better. As always, if your pet is showing signs of illness, it should be examined by a veterinarian.
Last Reviewed: 11/05/2009
