A recent outbreak of bird flu has raised concerns about pet safety, particularly among cats. In Oregon, a house cat died after consuming contaminated frozen cat food containing raw turkey, prompting a voluntary recall by the pet food company.
The virus, known as Type A H5N1, is primarily found in wild birds and can be transmitted to other animals through contact with infected feces or contaminated feed. While cases of infection are rare among pets, cats seem more susceptible than dogs.
To protect their feline friends, pet owners should avoid feeding raw meat or unpasteurized dairy products, and keep them away from wild birds, livestock, and poultry. Proper hand hygiene is also crucial when handling animals.
Symptoms of bird flu in cats include loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, reddened eyes, and discharge. If your cat is showing unusual behavior or displaying these symptoms, it’s essential to seek veterinary attention promptly. In the meantime, keep your cat isolated from anyone with a weakened immune system.
A recalled pet food batch by Northwest Naturals has spread awareness about the risks associated with raw meat products. The company voluntarily issued a recall after finding the virus in their product, which was sold in multiple states and provinces.
By taking these precautions, pet owners can significantly reduce the risk of their cats contracting bird flu.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/cats-dogs-bird-flu-pets-raw-food-7a57b3047164676a7d237bcd05a5b9db