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West Nile Virus FAQ for pets
OC Animal Care
With concern growing over the spread of West Nile Virus (WNV), here are some frequently
asked questions about WNV and pets like dogs and cats.
Can West Nile virus cause illness in dogs or cats?
How do dogs and cats become infected with WNV?
Can a pet infected with WNV infect people or other pets?
What can I do to protect my pets from WNV?
What is the treatment for an animal infected with WNV? Should
a dog or cat infected with WNV be destroyed?
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Can West Nile virus cause illness in dogs or cats?
Yes, but this apparently occurs very rarely. WNV does not usually cause severe illness in dogs and cats. It is
important that pets showing symptoms of a neurologic illness be evaluated for other, more likely causes.
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How do dogs and cats become infected with WNV?
Dogs and cats can be infected with WNV in the same manner as birds, horses and people: through the bite of
an infected mosquito.
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Can a pet infected with WNV infect people or other pets?
here is no evidence of human-to-human or pet-to-human transmission. There also is no evidence that WNV
is transmitted between pets. Only an infected mosquito can transmit the virus. Infected pets are unlikely to
transmit the virus back into the mosquito population.
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What can I do to protect my pets from WNV?
There is not a WNV vaccine currently available for dogs and cats. The
most effective way to prevent infection with West Nile Virus is to
eliminate mosquito-breeding sites (areas of stagnant water) around your
home and property. Spot flea products are reportedly not effective
at repelling or killing mosquitoes. However, flea sprays
containing pyrethrins may have some value as repellents. Follow label
directions carefully. Never use an insect repellent on your pets unless it is
specifically approved for such use.
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What is the treatment for an animal infected with WNV? Should
a dog or cat infected with WNV be destroyed?
Treatment would be supportive and consistent with standard veterinary practices for animals infected with a viral agent. There is no reason to destroy an animal just because it has been infected with WNV.
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