Key Information
WNV is rarely reported in companion animals
WNV illness in dogs and cats is rarely diagnosed. This does not mean that dogs
and cats are not exposed to mosquitoes that carry the virus. In fact, in a survey
of dogs in New York City in 1999, 5 percent of dogs tested positive for WNV neutralizing
antibodies. None of these dogs had a reported illness. WNV was isolated from
brain tissue from a cat with neurologic disease in 1999 and from an elderly dog
with neurologic disease in September 2002.
However, both dogs and cats generally are refractory to illness. Other factors
such as the animal’s immune status may play a role in these rare cases.
WNV in other animals
Since 1999, WNV has been found in other animals such as bats, camelids (alpacas
and llamas), a reindeer, a seal, sheep, squirrels, a wolf, a rabbit, and a chipmunk.
WNV illnesses are more commonly identified in horses and birds, especially crows,
blue jays and raptors.
Is there a vaccine for dogs and cats?
There is no vaccine available for dogs or cats.
Precautions
Remember illness is rare in dogs and cats. Some general precautions to prevent
mosquito bites include:
If you suspect
West Nile Virus in your pet
Please contact your veterinarian if your animal shows signs of fever,
depression, incoordination, muscle weakness, and seizures.