Cats Can Get Sick with Bird Flu — Here’s How to Protect Them, and the Pet Food Recall You Need to Know
The Death of an Oregon House Cat and a Pet Food Recall Raise Questions about Bird Flu
Bird flu has been spreading for years in wild birds, chickens, turkeys, and many other animals. It was first confirmed in U.S. dairy cattle in March. The virus has been causing sporadic, mostly mild illnesses in people in the U.S., and nearly all of those infected worked on dairy or poultry farms. When the virus is found, every bird on a farm is killed to limit the spread of the disease.
Are Pets in Danger of Getting Bird Flu?
Though cases of infection are rare, cats seem especially susceptible to the bird flu virus, or Type A H5N1. Even before the cattle outbreak, there were feline cases linked to wild birds or poultry. Since March, dozens of cats have caught the virus. These include barn and feral cats, indoor cats, and big cats in zoos and in the wild.
How Can I Protect My Cat from Bird Flu?
Cats should not drink unpasteurized dairy products or eat raw meat. Pet owners should keep cats away from wild birds, livestock, and poultry. Don’t let them wander freely in the outdoors, as you don’t know what they’re getting into. Cats are natural hunters, and one of the animals they love to hunt are birds. Avoid touching sick or dead birds yourself. Thoroughly wash your hands after handling poultry or animals.
What Are the Symptoms of Bird Flu in Cats?
Cats sick with bird flu might experience loss of appetite, lethargy, and fever. If your cat is usually playful and likes to look out the window, but instead has been sleeping all the time or hiding from you, take note. "There’s something wrong," said Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, president-elect of the American Veterinary Medical Association. They could have reddened or inflamed eyes and discharge from the eyes and nose. They might have difficulty breathing or have tremors or seizures. If your cat is sick, call your veterinary clinic and keep the cat away from anyone with a weakened immune system.
What Pet Food Was Recalled?
Northwest Naturals, a pet food company in Portland, Oregon, announced a voluntary recall on Tuesday of one batch of its 2-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food after it tested positive for the virus. The product was sold in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Wisconsin, as well as Canada’s British Columbia. The recalled food has "best if used by" dates of May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. Consumers should throw it away and contact the place of purchase for a refund.
Conclusion
While cases of bird flu in cats are rare, it’s essential to take precautions to protect your feline friends. By keeping them away from wild birds, livestock, and poultry, and ensuring they don’t eat unpasteurized dairy products or raw meat, you can minimize the risk of infection. If you suspect your cat is sick, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian for advice.
FAQs
- Can dogs get bird flu?
- Dogs seem to be less vulnerable than cats, but they should eat only thoroughly cooked foods.
- Can I still use the recalled pet food?
- No, you should throw it away and contact the place of purchase for a refund.
- What should I do if my cat is sick?
- Call your veterinary clinic and keep the cat away from anyone with a weakened immune system.
- How can I prevent my cat from getting bird flu?
- Keep your cat away from wild birds, livestock, and poultry, and ensure they don’t eat unpasteurized dairy products or raw meat.
