If you’ve ever wondered whether your pet can catch the flu, you’re not alone. Many pet owners notice their dog or cat sneezing or feeling under the weather and worry it might be something contagious—especially during flu season. While dogs and cats don’t catch the exact same flu as humans, they do have their own versions of respiratory viruses that can make them sick. Understanding these illnesses can help you protect your pet and prevent the spread of infection.
Can dogs get the flu?
Yes, dogs can get the flu, but it’s not the same strain that affects humans. Canine influenza, or dog flu, is caused by two main strains:
- H3N8 – Originally found in horses, this virus adapted to infect dogs in the early 2000s.
- H3N2 – First detected in Asia, this strain spread to the United States and has caused outbreaks in kennels and shelters.
Dog flu spreads through direct contact with infected dogs, contaminated surfaces, or airborne droplets from sneezing and coughing. It’s highly contagious, especially in places with many dogs, like dog parks, grooming salons, and boarding facilities.
Symptoms of canine influenza
Dog flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Persistent cough
- Runny nose or nasal discharge
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Reduced appetite
- Watery eyes
- Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)
Most healthy dogs recover in two to three weeks, but in rare cases, complications like pneumonia can develop. Puppies, senior dogs, and those with underlying health conditions are at higher risk for severe illness.
Can cats get the flu?
Cats don’t get canine influenza, but they can develop respiratory infections caused by different viruses, including:
- Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) – A lifelong infection that can flare up during stress.
- Feline calicivirus (FCV) – Causes flu-like symptoms and, in some cases, painful mouth ulcers.
- H3N2 canine influenza virus – Though rare, some cases of dog flu have been reported in cats.
These viruses spread through close contact with infected cats, contaminated objects (like food bowls and bedding), or airborne droplets. Multi-cat households and shelters are at higher risk.
Symptoms of feline respiratory infections
Cats with respiratory infections may experience:
- Sneezing fits
- Runny nose and watery eyes
- Congestion
- Fever
- Loss of appetite
- Mouth ulcers (with calicivirus)
- Coughing (less common than in dogs)
While many cases are mild, kittens, senior cats, and immunocompromised cats can develop more serious complications like pneumonia.
Can pets catch the flu from humans?
Human influenza viruses, like the common flu (H1N1), generally do not infect dogs or cats. However, there have been isolated cases of pets testing positive for certain human flu strains, though transmission appears to be extremely rare.
If you have the flu, it’s always a good idea to practice good hygiene around your pets. Wash your hands frequently and avoid sneezing or coughing directly on them.
How to protect your pet from flu and respiratory infections
While there’s no foolproof way to prevent respiratory viruses in pets, you can reduce their risk with a few key precautions:
- Vaccinate when appropriate – Canine influenza vaccines are available and may be recommended for dogs that visit kennels, daycare, or grooming facilities. For cats, the FHV-1 and FCV vaccines are part of core vaccinations.
- Practice good hygiene – Wash your hands before and after handling multiple pets, and regularly clean food bowls, bedding, and shared toys.
- Avoid exposure – Keep your pet away from sick animals, and be cautious when introducing them to new environments.
- Monitor symptoms early – If your pet shows signs of a respiratory infection, contact your veterinarian before symptoms worsen.
When to see a vet
Mild cases of dog or cat flu often resolve on their own, but veterinary care is necessary if your pet:
- Has trouble breathing
- Stops eating or drinking
- Shows signs of dehydration (dry nose, sunken eyes, lethargy)
- Develops thick, yellow nasal discharge
- Has a persistent high fever
Early treatment can help prevent complications and make recovery smoother.
While dogs and cats don’t catch the human flu, they can develop their own versions of respiratory viruses that cause flu-like symptoms. The good news is that most cases are mild and manageable with proper care. If you’re concerned about your pet’s health, Atlas Animal Hospital is here to provide expert guidance and treatment.
Need to book an appointment? Contact us today to keep your pet happy and healthy.
