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02/05/2025
DATCP ALERT: Raw Milk and Raw Pet Food Awareness for Pet Owners
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is alerting Wisconsin pet owners to the risk involved in feeding pet food containing raw milk and raw ingredients to pets. There have been multiple recalls of raw milk and raw ingredient pet foods following the deaths of multiple cats after contracting highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI/H5N1), commonly called bird flu, associated with consumption of these products. Additionally, several indoor cats from California have died after contracting bird flu following consumption of raw cow’s milk.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), “Since the U.S. outbreak of HPAI in dairy cattle began in March 2024, dozens of cats are known to have contracted the virus. This includes barn and feral cats, indoor cats, and big cats in zoos and in the wild.” HPAI continues to circulate in both wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021. Since that time, HPAI has also affected other species, including mammalian species. A specific genotype of H5N1 virus was first detected in dairy cattle earlier this year in Texas. To date, Wisconsin has not identified an HPAI infection in dairy herds in the state. DATCP continues to work with USDA to conduct testing for HPAI encourage biosecurity, and provide resources to producers.
What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)?
HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds and poultry. It is caused by influenza type A viruses, and the disease severity varies depending on the strain and species affected.
HPAI is resistant in nature and can survive for long periods of time, even in low temperatures. This allows for easy transmission to occur through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated surfaces, feed, water, and equipment, or indirect contact with contaminated environments, people, and vehicles.
Animals Affected by HPAI:
-Birds and Poultry: Chickens, turkeys, ducks, and geese are highly susceptible to HPAI, which can spread rapidly and cause severe illness or death.
-Wild Birds: Migratory waterfowl can carry the virus without showing symptoms, spreading it to domestic poultry.
-Mammals: HPAI can also infect mammals, including domestic cats, dogs, cows, and big cats, usually due to exposure to infected birds or contaminated environments.
Why Should Veterinarians Be Concerned?
With three recent detections of HPAI in poultry in Wisconsin and its national spread, it is crucial for all veterinarians to be aware of the risks. The following are key points to remember from DATCP:
Health Risks
Raw milk and uncooked meat can carry harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). These pathogens can cause severe illness in pets and humans, posing significant health risks.
Disease Prevention
Veterinarians can help prevent the spread of diseases and protect the health of pets and their owners. Encourage your staff and clients to follow these disease prevention methods:
-Ensure all animal food products are properly cooked and pasteurized.
-Wash hands before and after handling pet food, as well as utensils and surfaces that have come in contact with food.
-Clean and disinfect food and water bowls regularly with pet-safe disinfectants.
-Avoid cross-contamination by storing pet food separately from other food products.
-Follow storage guidelines and keep pet food in sealed containers, protected from moisture and pests.
Safety Standards
-Adhering to recommended safety standards and guidelines for pet food helps maintain a high level of care and responsibility.
-Be aware of alternative food processing methods that do not use heat such as freeze-dried foods and treats.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated effectiveness of these methods on viral pathogens such as HPAI/H5N1 is unknown at this time.
