Can Pets Catch Swine Flu

With the total confirmed cases of swine flu in the U.S. reaching 20, the federal government had just declared a public health emergency. So far there have been cases reported in California (7), Kansas (2), New York City (28), Ohio (1) and Texas (2), according to the Centers for Disease Control.
 
There's no doubt that, as a nation as a whole, we're on full alert when it comes to staying healthy and avoiding coming in contact with those who are ill or sick, but what about our pets? Can pets catch swine flu?
 
The question is one that has a "so far" answer. So far, it appears that dogs and cats cannot catch swine flu. So far, no known cases of pets being affected by swine flu have been reported, and doctors are fairly certain that swine flu is not able to be spread to our beloved pets.
 
The scientific reasoning for why experts believe animals can't catch swine flu: Our genetics are different, and a flu virus that "fits" our human system likely won't fit within your dog or cat's.
 
It is not typical for an animal flu to infect humans, however, this particular strain -- the swine influenza A -- has mutated in such a way that humans are susceptible, and can pass it to each other.
 
To this date, there appears to be no information that says that pets can contract swine flu.
 

For more info: The reported number of cases of swine flu were correct at the time of printing. This article will be updated frequently, but for the most recent official information on swine flu, visit www.cdc.gov/swineflu.

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