As it turns out, it may be possible to spread influenza to our cats and dogs. It is well known that some flu strains evolve from pigs and birds and move into human populations - like the most recent strain H1N1. Some researchers and veterinarians are looking into the phenomena called “reverse zoonosis” where the virus moves back into the animal population.  Some cats, dogs, ferrets and birds have shown to be infected with influenza viruses. From 2011 to 2012, 13 cats and one dog have been identified as being infected with the pandemic H1N1 infection, contracted from people.
 
[The first case recorded of fatal human-to-cat transmission of the pandemic H1N1 flu virus occurred in Oregon in 2009] “In that instance, a pet owner became severely ill with the flu and had to be hospitalized. While she was in the hospital, her cat – an indoor cat with no exposure to other sick people, homes or wildlife – also died of pneumonia caused by an H1N1 infection.” Details were published in Veterinary Pathology, a professional journal.

So what can you do to prevent the transmission? The same things we practice to prevent the spread of the flu to other humans. Minimize your contact as much as possible while sick, wash your hands well with warm water and soap, and cover your mouth while coughing and sneezing.
If a pet experiences respiratory disease or other illness following exposure to someone with influenza-like illness, scientists and veterinarians encourage them to see their veterinarian for treatment and testing.

Canadian Vet Magazine, November/December 2012