This page produced by the Continuing Education-Public Service/Extension group at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana.
Go to the College West Nile Virus page.
Q: Can West Nile virus infect dogs and cats?
A: Yes, however, infection rates in epidemic areas are low. WNV does not
usually cause severe illness.
Q: Which dogs and cats are likely to be the most susceptible?
A: Based on the most recent animal cases seen at the University of Illinois
College of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary
Diagnostic Laboratory, young, old, and immune-compromised pets would seem
to be at a higher risk.
Q: How do dogs and cats become infected with West Nile virus?
A: The same way humans become infected: by the bite of infectious mosquitoes.
It is possible that dogs and cats could become infected by eating dead infected
animals such as birds, but this is unproven.
Q: How can I protect my pet?
A:
Q: Is there a mosquito repellent available that is safe to use in
dogs?
A: Yes. There are a few products that are approved for safe use
in dogs. Products may be available at local pet stores/feedstores or veterinary
offices. We recommend pet owners to contact their veterinarian regarding the
use of these products.
According to the most recent Veterinary PDRr, the following products have been
approved for use in dogs to prevent or repel mosquitoes. (Note: several of these
are horse products that are also approved for use in dogs.)
K9 Advantix by Bayer was recently approved for the killing and repellancy of mosquitoes in dogs. This product is available only through veterinarians.
Q: Can I use a mosquito insect repellent meant for humans on my pet?
A: No, only approved mosquito repellents should be used on your pet,
make sure to read the label first to determine if the product is approved
for use in pets and then follow label instructions for applications.
Q: Can I use DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide, N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide)
mosquito repellent on my pet?
A: The use of DEET on animals is not recommended and should be avoided.
DEET has been associated with serious adverse effects when used on dogs and
cats. Citrus oil extracts and other essential oils are also not recommended
due to the extreme sensitivity of some animals to these products.
Q: What are the signs of WNV in dogs?
A: Neurological signs are similar to those seen in horses, such as incoordination,
depression, decreased appetite, difficulty walking, tremors, abnormal head posture,
circling, and convulsions. These signs can mimic other diseases; therefore,
it is very important to contact your veterinarian if your pet is exhibiting
any of these signs.
Q: Is there a vaccine available for dogs and cats?
A: No, there is currently only a vaccine available for horses.
Q: What is the treatment for WNV in pets?
A: There is no specific treatment other than supportive care provided
by your veterinarian.
Q: Can pets transmit the WNV to humans or other pets?
A: There is no documented evidence that animal-to-animal or animal-to-person
transmission can occur. There is no reason to destroy an animal because it has
been infected with WNV.
Created September 19, 2002; prepared by Dr. Christine Merle, Small Animal Extension Veterinarian, University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, Continuing Education and Public Service Unit/Extension. Update April 08, 2003 by DFD.