By now, most of us have heard about the H5N1 outbreak that’s infected poultry flocks and driven egg prices sky-high. But birds aren’t the only ones at risk of contracting the “bird flu.” According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, since March 2024, dozens of cats are known to have contracted the virus, including barn and feral cats, indoor cats, and even big cats in zoos.
As a locally owned and operated veterinary clinic here in Damascus, Oregon, it’s our job to keep pet owners educated and up-to-date on regional health concerns. This month, we’re looking at risk factors for cats to contract bird flu, signs and symptoms, and the best ways to keep your kitties safe!
What Is H5N1 (AKA the Bird Flu)?
Avian influenza, commonly called “bird flu,” is a viral infection. Unfortunately, cats appear to be particularly susceptible to severe illness, with H5N1 infection often resulting in death. According to Cornell University, up to 70% of infected cats die of their infections.
How Is Bird Flu Transmitted?
Cats can contract bird flu through contact with infected birds, such as wild birds or poultry. This includes ingesting wild birds or exposure to respiratory droplets, droppings, and feathers. Cats can also become infected after eating raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk from infected cows, or eggs from infected birds. Here in Oregon and Washington, several fatal cases of bird flu in cats have been traced back to a commercially available raw food diet.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Cats
Signs of bird flu often start mild but may progress rapidly. In severe cases, death can occur within 24 hours. Symptoms include:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Red or inflamed eyes
- Discharge from the nose and eyes
- Difficulty breathing, sneezing, or coughing
- Tremors, seizures, or blindness
If your cat shows any symptoms of bird flu, call your veterinarian as soon as possible! The mortality rate of bird flu in cats can be high. Still, early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of survival.
Keeping Cats Safe
Avoid raw foods. Most confirmed cases of bird flu in cats have been linked to feeding pets undercooked or raw meat. This includes uncooked or freeze-dried meat-based diets, treats, and other animal products. Avoid raw milk or dairy products, and don’t feed cats raw meat, poultry, or eggs.
Limit exposure to wild birds and poultry. If possible, keep cats indoors and safely away from wild birds and poultry. For outdoor cats, a secure outdoor enclosure (such as a catio) can reduce their risk of exposure. Have an adventure kitty? Supervise their outside time and prevent them from interacting with wild birds.
Monitor for symptoms. Closely monitor your cats for signs of infection, even if they’re indoor-only! While unlikely, cats can still contract the bird flu from infected clothing and shoes, food or water bowls, toys, and litter boxes.
Take other precautions. Always wash your hands after handling raw meat or interacting with wild birds or poultry. If you have to handle dead animals, always wear gloves or thoroughly wash your hands and clothes immediately afterward. Report any suspected cases of bird flu to your veterinarian and local authorities.
Here To Support Damascus, Oregon’s Pet Parents!
While cases of cats with the bird flu are still rare, a few simple precautions can help keep them safe. Pet parents can stay up-to-date on local bird flu infections by following the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association. If you have any concerns about your cat’s safety or possible exposure, give us a call. The team at Pine Point Animal Hospital is here to help.