Aww…who is the adorable pup? It’s a 4-month-old Boston Terrier/Toy Pom cross- Tazz. This “Pomston” is a Jo’burg local who enjoys occasional sweet treats and mingling with other dogs. Sadly, he hasn’t been his charming self lately, because he was recently diagnosed with Canine Parvovirus Enteritis (commonly called Cat Flu). Although the virus sounds like cats are the reason for the sneezing; turns out, the feline fur-balls are not to blame. Cat flu is strictly a doggy disease.

 

Did you know?

 

According to Ronald Schultz, an expert in animal vaccines, cat flu originally came from horses. Ag no man, this is getting ridiculous now… Well, bear with me. Live viruses were modified and used to vaccinate horses at racetracks. The viruses jumped to Greyhounds, which shared the tracks with the infected horses. Crazy!

 

Here’s more info on the cat flu virus: Cat flu symptoms:

Dogs with cat flu should be taken to the vet immediately. Here are the symptoms to look out for:

 

 

Sounds terrible, right? Poor Tazz experienced symptoms like sneezing, nausea and loss of appetite a few hours after his daily walk. His owner took him to the vet, who immediately tested and confirmed the disease.

 

Cat flu treatment:

There is no cure for cat flu, but it can be treated. Tazz was given a drip to avoid dehydration. He was also given antibiotics to treat secondary bacterial infections. According to his vet at the Boskruin Veterinary Clinic in Johannesburg, 20% (1 in 5) of dogs infected with cat flu die. Fortunately, this little guy is a trooper and on his way to recovery. He’s getting stronger every day and even has his cheeky bark back.

 

How can cat flu be prevented?

 

Schultz says dogs should be vaccinated against cat flu and other viruses like Rabies and Lyme disease annually.

 

Here’s a helpful table to help you keep track of your pet’s vaccinations:

 

So, now that you’re a cat flu expert, are you ready for a trip to the vet? Get those shots and ensure man’s best friend against life-threatening illnesses.

 

Take Note: The dotsure.co.za Accidental pet insurance plan does not cover illnesses. Get a Basic, Standard or Superior pet insurance plan to cover your canine companions against serious illnesses.