COLORADO SPRINGS - An Iowa cat is confirmed to have H1N1 flu.  It is the first known case of a domestic cat to get it, but veterinarians say we should not be surprised.  "We've got lots of examples over the last decade of mutations of influenza viruses," said Colorado Springs Veterinarian Dr. Bill Willhoit. 

The most recent example is Swine Flu.  The virus has infected humans, swine, ferrets, poultry and now cats.  Here is the doctor's advice.  "I think they ought to pick their cat up, love it, feed it, treat it just the way you did 2 days ago.  There's no reason for them to be concerned.  Cats probably have a bigger fear that we'll give them H1N1," said Dr. Willhoit. 

The cat's owner says 3 members of the household had experienced flu-like symptoms prior to the cat's illness.  But it is not yet known if cats can give the virus to humans.  Veterinarians want you to know if your cat is coughing and sniffling, it does not mean flu, especially this early in the game.  "They have probably as many upper respiratory infections as people do, but they're not H1N1," said Dr. Willhoit. 

So you might be wondering, could H1N1 flu affect your dog, rabbit or gerbil?  "I don't think any species is exempt," said Dr. Willhoit.  The cat is alive and doing well.  He was released with standard care instructions and antibiotics to treat secondary infections.