The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has ordered manufacturers of raw dog and cat food to improve their detection methods for bird flu in products sold to pet owners. Several cats have died from eating contaminated raw food, while dogs have also contracted the H5N1 avian influenza virus.
Pasteurization, a heat treatment process, can neutralize viruses like bird flu, but regulators now require manufacturers to include bird flu as a threat in their food safety plans. This update aims to ensure that companies are aware of the new H5N1 hazard and take necessary measures to minimize its transmission via animal food.
Research suggests that cats can serve as “mixing vessels” for bird flu viruses, allowing them to mutate and become more contagious among humans. Domestic cats have already died from eating contaminated raw meat or milk products in California, Colorado, and Oregon. Dogs have also contracted H5N1, although no cases have been reported in the US.
The FDA emphasizes the importance of pasteurization to prevent bird flu transmission through animal food. Companies must now obtain meat, milk, or eggs from healthy flocks or herds. With this new rule, regulators aim to minimize the risk of bird flu transmission and protect both pets and humans.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2025/01/17/raw-pet-food-bird-flu-fda/77784140007