Washington County, Ore. – A domestic cat tested positive for avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, prompting its eventual euthanization, according to the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA). This alarming case marks the fourth such incident involving cats and H5N1 avian influenza within the state, raising concerns over the safety of pet food and the potential for future outbreaks.
The infected cat was discovered displaying symptoms including fever, runny nose, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. A veterinarian diagnosed it with pneumonia and recommended testing for the virulent strain of bird flu. Dr. Ryan Scholz, the state veterinarian, noted, "The cats were outdoor-only cats, right on the edge of a wildlife refuge where lots of ducks and geese were present." He emphasized the cat's exposure to these wild birds, which are known carriers of the virus.
This incident is part of a larger pattern; two other cats last year fell victim to the same fate after consuming raw food contaminated with the virus. According to Andrea Cantu-Schomus, the ODA spokesperson, the recent infected cat was severely ill and had to be euthanized.
The spread of bird flu has been documented among various animal species, predominantly wild birds. This has led to stringent measures among poultry operations, as infected birds are typically culled to prevent spreading the disease. The virus has already impacted approximately 136 million birds across the nation.
Connection to pet food has emerged as a significant concern. The ODA and health officials traced the ill cat's condition back to contaminated frozen cat food containing raw turkey. The viruses recovered from this pet food matched those found in the infected feline. Pet food company Northwest Naturals initiated a voluntary recall of one batch of its Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food, including products sold across several states and parts of Canada.
Dr. Michael Q. Bailey, president-elect of the American Veterinary Medical Association, warned against the dangers associated with feeding pets raw food, stating, "Raw milk, raw meat products can be and are a vector for carrying this virus." Cooked meats or pasteurized products are deemed safe as the processes destroy the bird flu virus and other pathogens.
Cats appear especially susceptible to H5N1 compared to dogs. While the latter can contract bird flu, they seem to be at lower risk. Since the initial wave of cases, dozens of cats, including both feral and house pets, have reported symptoms linked to the virus. Even zoo cats such as tigers and mountain lions have been affected.
For those concerned about their animals, pet owners are advised to institute specific safety measures. Recommendations include keeping cats away from wild birds and agricultural areas, avoiding raw food products, and practicing good hygiene after handling any raw poultry or meat.
Dr. Bailey strongly advises against allowing cats to roam freely outdoors since their hunting instincts may lead them to interact with infected wildlife. He states, "You don’t know what they’re getting to; cats are natural hunters, and one of the animals they love to hunt are birds.”
Symptoms of bird flu infection in cats can manifest as loss of appetite, fever, lethargy, and respiratory distress. If pet owners observe such signs, they should contact their veterinarian immediately. Notably, cats exhibiting unusual behavior, like excessive hiding or sleepiness, may indicate significant illness.
Despite the gradual spread of bird flu and multiple feline cases, Oregon officials have implemented monitoring efforts. The state began testing its milk supply after the discovery of the virus and continues to warn pet owners about the risks associated with potential exposure.
Dr. Scholz, addressing growing concerns, reiterated, "There’s still much to learn about avian influenza, and we’re actively identifying potential routes of transmission, especially through raw pet food.” He also suggested limiting pets’ exposure to waterfowl and recommended avoiding the feeding of raw food, highlighting the significance of safeguarding not just the health of pets, but also the broader public health situation at stake.
While the case of bird flu among domestic cats remains relatively rare, experts stress vigilance. The ODA has confirmed access to avian flu testing for veterinarians across the state, ensuring rapid responses to any outbreak. Maintaining proactive measures now may help mitigate risks related to pet health and wider outbreaks, reinforcing the importance of food safety, particularly within the pet food industry.