It seems like everyone here in The County has been dealing with head colds, flu, bronchitis and even some people have battled pneumonia. Having said that, you may wonder: Can cats and dogs get colds and flu?
The answer is yes, but it’s not always the human kind. For cats and dogs, the symptoms can be sneezing, weakness, and nose and eye discharge. These can also be signs of allergies and infections, as well as serious conditions like distemper, parasites and pneumonia.
Can your pet catch a cold or flu from you? For the most part, dogs can’t catch what you have, but dogs can get viruses from each other.
Cats, on the other hand, can catch colds or flu from you. The virus attaches to cells in the respiratory tract of felines similarly to how it does in humans. Cats can also get cat-to-cat viruses that are similar to a cold, but humans can’t catch those.
If you have a pet, it’s always a good idea to wash your hands often, especially after contact. Avoid exposure from the pet’s saliva, such as by touching your nose and mouth, or broken skin.
If a pet is ailing, keep him away from family members with weakened immune systems, such as elderly and even pregnant women. It is best never to let pets sleep in your bed, especially under the covers.
If your pet is sick, help him feel better by regularly cleaning his area (food and water bowls, and where he sleeps) and, in the case of cats, changing the litter box often.
Allow him to rest and be sure he drinks plenty of water. If he’s stuffed up, humidified air may help him breathe easier. If you’re concerned, have your vet do a physical exam. They may perhaps suggest diagnostic tests, such as a culture or blood count.
As always, please consider making room in your heart and home for one of the animals available at the Central Aroostook Humane Society’s animal shelter. There are many cats and dogs that need loving homes.
Visit the humane society at 210 Cross St. in Presque Isle to adopt the forever pet that is right for you. You can also find us on Facebook.
Our hours are Tuesdays from noon to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed from 12 to 12:30 p.m. for lunch).
Please be responsible: spay and neuter your pets.
Gloria J. Towle is on the Central Aroostook Humane Society Board of Directors.
