US Cats Euthanised After Bird Flu Linked to Raw Pet Food

Bird Flu: A Growing threat to Cats and Poultry

Recent reports have raised alarm bells about teh escalating threat of bird flu, highlighting its potential impact not only on poultry and livestock but also on our cherished feline companions. two cats in Oregon were tragically euthanized in February 2025 after contracting the virus from contaminated pet food.

A Nationwide Outbreak

As its emergence in 2022,bird flu has wreaked havoc,decimating millions of chickens and turkeys across the United States. This outbreak, the nation’s worst, has left a devastating mark on the poultry industry. Beyond poultry, the virus has infected thousands of dairy cattle and nearly 70 people as of April 2024.

“The risk to the general public is low,” stated the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

However, the recent cases involving cats raise serious concerns about the potential for broader animal and human health implications.

Cats and Pet Food: A Concerning Connection

Oregon’s agriculture department confirmed that both affected cats consumed the same brand of raw chicken pet food,Wild Coast Raw,before exhibiting symptoms of illness. Testing confirmed the presence of bird flu in both cats and the implicated food samples.

“The owners made the tough decision to euthanize their cats due to the severity of their illnesses,” noted the department. They also issued a public health advisory urging pet owners to avoid feeding undercooked or raw meat to their animals.

Wild Coast Raw, which sources its chicken primarily from California, assured consumers that they only purchase human-grade poultry from facilities inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The company is currently collaborating with a third-party laboratory to conduct internal screening for bird flu in their products.

Widespread Impact and Continued Concerns

The impact of bird flu extends far beyond poultry.California, a major agricultural state, has seen millions of chickens and turkeys perish due to the virus.

While authorities emphasize that the risk to humans is low, the appearance of bird flu in cats highlights the need for vigilance and proactive measures. The situation underscores the interconnectedness of animal and human health and the importance of robust public health infrastructure.

Protecting our Pets and Ourselves

Experts recommend several steps to minimize the risk of bird flu transmission:

• Keep pet birds and poultry seperate from other animals, including cats and dogs.
• Avoid contact with wild birds and their droppings.
• Practice good hand hygiene, including washing hands thoroughly after handling birds or poultry and before handling food.
• Cook poultry thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Consult with a veterinarian about appropriate vaccination measures for pets and poultry.

Staying informed about bird flu outbreaks and following recommended safety guidelines is crucial for protecting both animals and humans.

Bird Flu: A Growing Threat to Cats and Poultry

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been a major concern for poultry farmers for years. However, recent cases of bird flu in cats, notably through contaminated pet food, have raised alarm bells for pet owners as well. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) issued a recommendation in January 2025 urging increased testing for turkeys in Minnesota and South Dakota after another cat in oregon died from bird flu after consuming raw turkey pet food.

“Minnesota’s Board of Animal Health has reported difficulties obtaining crucial facts from the USDA regarding the intensified testing program for turkeys.Simultaneously occurring, the CDC has faced criticism for delaying the release of a report detailing the first bird flu infections in cats with no outdoor exposure,” reports Reuters.

Protecting Our Pets and Ourselves

The recent cases of bird flu in cats highlight the need for vigilant monitoring and proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with this evolving public health threat. This underscores the interconnectedness of animal and human health.

• Consult with your veterinarian regarding the safety of your pet’s food and any potential risks associated with raw diets.
• Stay informed about outbreaks and advisories issued by the CDC and USDA.
• Practice good hygiene and sanitation measures, especially when handling poultry or other animals.

An Interview with Dr.Amelia Croft, Veterinarian specializing in Avian Diseases

Dr. Croft, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. The recent news about bird flu affecting cats, particularly through contaminated pet food, has caused considerable concern. Can you shed light on this situation?

“Certainly, thank you for having me. These recent cases in Oregon involving cats contracting bird flu through contaminated raw chicken pet food are concerning. It highlights a potential vulnerability we hadn’t fully grasped. While the risk to individual cats remains relatively low, this underscores the widespread nature of avian influenza and the potential for transmission across species.”

Could you explain the link between bird flu and cats?

“Bird flu primarily affects birds, particularly poultry.However, while rare, instances of cats becoming infected with certain strains have occurred. It’s believed these infections likely occur through exposure to infected birds or contaminated materials. These new cases emphasize how pet food can act as an indirect vector for transmission.Essentially, infected birds were used as ingredients in raw pet food, exposing cats to the virus.”

What are your recommendations to cat owners concerning potential bird flu exposure?

Rising Tide: Bird Flu’s impact on Feline Health

Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, has been making headlines for its severe impact on poultry populations. But what about our feline companions? Recent cases of cats contracting the H5N1 strain of bird flu have raised concerns about the potential spread to other animals and, eventually, to humans.

Protecting Your Cat: A Proactive Approach

Experts emphasize the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to protect cats from avian influenza. Dr. Croft, a leading veterinarian, advises cat owners to:

• consult their veterinarian regarding their cat’s diet, considering alternatives to raw pet foods.
• Seek immediate veterinary attention if their cats display any signs of illness, including lethargy, decreased appetite, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.
• Maintain excellent hygiene practices when handling cats and ensure litter boxes are cleaned regularly.

While cat-to-cat transmission of avian influenza is not typical, these measures help minimize the risk of infection and promote overall feline health.

Beyond Poultry: A Cause for Concern?

The emergence of avian influenza in cats raises questions about the wider impact of this virus beyond poultry populations. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk to the general public is low, dr. Croft acknowledges the need for continued vigilance. “These evolving outbreaks certainly warrant attention,” he states.”We’ve seen rare cases of humans contracting bird flu.”

Staying Safe: Preventive Measures for Everyone

The CDC recommends practicing good hygiene, particularly after contact with birds, poultry products, or contaminated environments. They also urge individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they experience flu-like symptoms.

Navigating the Challenge: A Call for Action

The situation highlighted by avian influenza cases in cats underscores the importance of proactive measures, open communication, and robust agricultural policies.Early detection, containment strategies, and informed decision-making are crucial in mitigating the risks posed by this evolving threat. By working together, we can navigate these challenges and protect both human and animal health.

What specific research areas related too avian influenza in cats do you believe need further exploration by scientists?

Bird Flu: an Interview with Dr.Amelia Croft

avian influenza,commonly known as bird flu,has been a major concern for poultry farmers for years. However, recent cases of bird flu in cats, notably through contaminated pet food, have raised alarm bells for pet owners as well. The Centers for Disease Control and prevention (CDC) maintains that the risk to the general public is low, but the appearance of bird flu in cats highlights the need for vigilance and proactive measures.

We spoke with Dr.Amelia Croft, a veterinarian specializing in Avian Diseases, to gain further insight into this evolving situation.

From Poultry to Pets: A Concerning Shift

” Certainly, thank you for having me. These recent cases in Oregon involving cats contracting bird flu through contaminated raw chicken pet food are concerning.It highlights a potential vulnerability we hadn’t fully grasped. While the risk to individual cats remains relatively low, this underscores the widespread nature of avian influenza and the potential for transmission across species.”

Understanding the Link

“Bird flu primarily affects birds, particularly poultry. However, while rare, instances of cats becoming infected with certain strains have occurred. It’s believed these infections likely occur through exposure to infected birds or contaminated materials. These new cases emphasize how pet food can act as an indirect vector for transmission. Essentially, infected birds were used as ingredients in raw pet food, exposing cats to the virus.”

Protecting feline Friends

“Certainly, several steps can be taken to minimize the risk:

first and foremost, cat owners should consult with their veterinarian regarding their cat’s diet. They may want to consider alternatives to raw pet foods as a precautionary measure. Secondly, owners need to be vigilant and seek immediate veterinary attention if their cats display any signs of illness, including lethargy, decreased appetite, sneezing, or difficulty breathing.

maintaining excellent hygiene practices when handling cats and ensuring their litter boxes are cleaned regularly is very crucial to prevent the spread of potential infections.”

A Broader Concern:

“These evolving outbreaks certainly warrant attention,” I say.”We’ve seen rare cases of humans contracting bird flu.”

The situation highlighed by avian influenza cases in cats underscores the importance of ongoing research, public health awareness, and global cooperation.

Do you think more research is needed on avian influenza in cats? Share your thoughts in the comments below!