A cat in New Jersey has been euthanized due to a confirmed case of bird flu. The cat was not infected through direct contact with poultry or livestock, but its outdoor lifestyle made it difficult to determine if it had exposure to wild birds or other animals. This incident is part of a growing concern across the US, where nearly 100 domestic cats have been infected with bird flu since 2022.
According to the USDA, 35 cases were reported in just the past two months this year. Fortunately, no human cases have been linked to exposure to infected cats. However, experts are warning pet owners about the risks of bird flu and providing guidelines to protect pets.
The New Jersey Health Department recommends keeping cats indoors to prevent exposure to birds and wildlife. It also advises avoiding contact with sick or dead animals, thoroughly washing hands after handling pets or poultry, and consulting a veterinarian if symptoms arise.
Source: https://6abc.com/post/cat-euthanized-hunterdon-county-new-jersey-becoming-sick-bird-flu/15964678