In December 2024, several cases of bird flu (H5N1) in domestic cats were reported across the United States. Some of the key incidents include:
- Santa Barbara County: The Public Health Department confirmed two cases of H5N1 bird flu in domestic cats. According to the Santa Barbara Independent, these cats contracted the virus after consuming raw milk, eggs, and chicken. Tragically, both cats, along with two others in the household, passed away due to the illness.
- Los Angeles: Two cats died after ingesting recalled raw milk. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed H5N1 infection and is investigating other potential cases in the county.
- Washington and Arizona: Between November and December, approximately 20 big cats at the Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Washington died from bird flu. Additionally, an outbreak at an Arizona zoo led to the death of several animals, including a cheetah and a mountain lion.
- Northwest Naturals Pet Food Recall: In response to a fatal case in Oregon, Portland-based Northwest Naturals recalled a batch of its Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food, which tested positive for bird flu. Read more about the recall here.
Bird Flu Risk to Humans
Though the U.S. has reported 66 confirmed human cases of bird flu during the 2024 outbreak, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently assesses the risk to the general public as low. Most human infections have been linked to exposures on commercial farms, particularly those involving dairy cattle and poultry.
For more detailed updates on human bird flu cases, visit the CDC’s avian influenza page.
How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Bird Flu
Bird flu (H5N1) is primarily spread through infected wild birds, poultry, and livestock. To protect your cat, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) recommends the following:
- Avoid feeding raw meat-based foods or treats, as well as unpasteurized milk or dairy products.
- Limit your cat’s exposure to wild birds, poultry, and other animals, as well as environments where these creatures live or gather.
- If your cat has been exposed to any source of potential infection, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Dr. Lizzie Youens, a veterinarian, urges cat owners to exercise caution and avoid feeding raw diets, as they pose an increased risk of food-borne infections like bird flu. For more on ensuring your pet’s health, explore the pet food options available on Jufex Shop.
Tips for Preventing Bird Flu in Cats:
- Do not feed raw dairy products or raw meat-based diets to your cats.
- Cook meat thoroughly before offering it to your pet.
- Keep cats indoors to minimize exposure to wildlife, especially birds.
- Avoid contact with sick or dead animals, and wash your hands and change your clothes afterward.
- In areas with known H5N1 outbreaks, keep your cats away from farms, livestock, and poultry environments.
By following these steps, you can greatly reduce the risk of bird flu transmission to your cat.
Signs of Bird Flu in Cats
If your cat does contract bird flu, early symptoms may resemble those of other illnesses, including appetite loss, fatigue, and fever. However, the condition can rapidly worsen. Signs of bird flu in cats include:
- Neurologic symptoms, such as incoordination, circling, tremors, seizures, or even blindness
- Severe depression or lethargy
- Excessive discharge from the eyes and nose
- Respiratory distress, including rapid or labored breathing, coughing, or sneezing
While human transmission from infected cats is rare, it’s not impossible. If you suspect your cat has been exposed to the virus or is showing symptoms, contact both your veterinarian and your physician for guidance.
For the latest updates on bird flu and its impact on pets, visit trusted sources like AVMA’s Bird Flu Resources and the CDC.
