01/29/2025
What's up Wednesday 🧐
Bird flu in pet cats, what you need to know ~ Catherine Ashe, DVM
You may have seen in the news that cats have died from bird (avian) flu. This is unfortunately true, but don’t panic! Here is what you need to know to protect your cats.
What is Bird Flu? Bird flu has been in the news a great deal recently, and for good reason. Avian influenza is caused by influenza viruses that primarily infect birds. Occasionally, these viruses can cross species barriers, affecting mammals, including domestic cats. The most concerning strain for cross-species transmission is H5N1, known for its potential to cause severe illness.
How Do Cats Contract Bird Flu? Domestic cats can become infected with bird flu in the following ways:
1. Ingestion of raw diet and/or raw milk. Even diets that are sold on the shelf as raw can be contaminated.
a. Raw Poultry and Wild Game: Feeding raw chicken, turkey, or duck that has not
been properly sourced or treated can expose cats to H5N1 and other pathogens.
b. Unpasteurized Milk: While bird flu viruses are less likely to be present in milk,
unpasteurized products can harbor other harmful bacteria, such as Salmonella or
Listeria, which weaken a cat's immune system, making them more susceptible to
secondary infections.
2. Ingestion of Contaminated Birds: Eating raw or undercooked poultry or wild birds
infected with avian influenza.
3. Contact with Infected Birds or Their Droppings: Cats that roam outdoors are at
higher risk of exposure.
4. Contaminated Environments: Surfaces, water, or soil contaminated with bird flu
viruses can pose risks.
Symptoms in Cats Bird flu in cats can cause symptoms such as:
● Fever
● Difficulty breathing
● Lethargy
● Loss of appetite
● Coughing or sneezing In severe cases, it may lead to pneumonia or organ failure.
● Neurological symptoms (changes in behavior, tremors, incoordination, seizures).
Preventive Measures
1. Avoid Feeding Raw Poultry: Cook all poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F to
ensure safety.
2. Supervise Outdoor Activities: Prevent cats from hunting or scavenging wild birds.
3. Use Pasteurized Products: Avoid raw or unpasteurized milk in a cat’s diet.
4. Practice Hygiene: Clean food bowls, utensils, and feeding areas thoroughly.
5. Monitor Health: Regular veterinary check-ups can help identify potential issues early.
What to Do If You Suspect Infection
● Isolate the cat from other animals and family members.
● Contact a veterinarian immediately to discuss symptoms and potential exposure.
Immediately let your veterinarian know if you feed raw food, unpasteurized milk, your cat is outdoors, or has known exposure to poultry and/or wild birds.
● Follow public health guidelines for handling and disposing of potentially contaminated materials.
Summary: Bird flu is a serious zoonotic disease that can affect domestic cats, especially those exposed to infected birds or raw diets containing contaminated poultry. By feeding cats a safe, balanced, and cooked diet, limiting outdoor exposure, and practicing good hygiene, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection. For more information, consult your veterinarian.
Veterinary Care in a Unique and Caring Environment
