There’s a lot of talk about the H1N1 vaccine and the flu itself. People are living in fear of getting the H1N1 flu. Most of these people are healthy but they are buying into the fear that is spreading. Take a deep breath, sit down, and listen up. Those of you, who are healthy, eat a balanced diet, use proper hygiene, exercise daily, keep your mind free of clutter, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze will be fine. People who eat junk, don’t exercise, do not adhere to proper hygiene, and have negativity swirling around in their brains may want to change their ways. If you’re not going to do it for yourself, do it for your cats!

At first it was reported that cats could not get the H1N1 virus from humans. However, the Iowa Department of Public Health reported that a cat became ill with H1N1 because three family members had influenza-like symptoms.

“A 13-year-old indoor cat in Iowa was brought to the Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, where it tested positive for the H1N1 virus. The diagnosis is the culmination of collaborative efforts between IDPH, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Advanced Host Defenses, Immunobiotics and Translational Comparative Medicine, USDA, and IDALS Animal Industry Bureau.” CLICK HERE to read the full report.

What can you do to protect you and your cat?

First, don’t panic and use common sense. When you go grocery shopping, wipe down the cart with disinfectant wipes. Most grocery stores now provide these wipes. Second, cover your mouth when you cough and cover your nose when you sneeze or sneeze into your shirt. It sounds gross, but you can always take your shirt off and wash it. Don’t forget to wash your hands. Carry hand sanitizer with you if you cannot immediately wash your hands. You may want to carry wipes in your car so you can wipe down your steering wheel and gear shifter.

Get rid of the fear

Cats and H1N1 does not have to be a scary thing. Keep your cats indoors and make sure they are up-to-date on their vaccinations. Give them good food and clean water. Make sure they get enough exercise since they are indoors. Clean their litter box every two weeks with a gentle cleaner. Use gloves when you clean their litter box!

For cats and H1N1 to meet, cat owners will have to have the flu. Owners who keep themselves healthy do not have anything to fear. Eat right, exercise, and tune out the “fear reports” about H1N1. Remember, the only thing you have to fear is fear itself!

Rebecca

What precautions are you taking to protect you and your cats?