HPAI/Avian Flu in Cats

While we have advocated for raw food diets in the past due to their nutritional value and relatively low risk of illness (when handled correctly), the current Avian flu outbreak has led us to advise against feeding raw food. Whole food diets remain an excellent option, and there are many commercially available choices.The safest option is to discontinue feeding raw food. If you prefer to cook the raw food you have, it is recommended to be cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees fahrenheit in order to kill the virus.

HPAI is a disease that is highly contagious and often deadly in poultry, caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5) and A (H7) viruses; it is also known as bird or avian flu. HPAI viruses can be transmitted by wild birds to domestic poultry and other bird and animal species. Although bird flu viruses do not normally infect humans, human infections have occurred. It is important to note that “highly pathogenic” refers to severe impact in birds, not necessarily in humans. HPAI has been detected in livestock in multiple states. This continues to be a developing situation and more information will be shared by federal and state partners as it becomes available.

As you may already be aware, there have been a few fatal cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI, also known as H5N1) in cats in our area, including one of our patients, an indoor only cat that ate a formulated raw diet.

According to the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), HPAI detections are higher in the fall and spring because wild birds spreading the virus are migrating to their seasonal homes. Since May 2022, several commercial poultry flocks and multiple backyard flocks have been affected in Oregon. On October 30, 2024, the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) confirmed HPAI in at least one pig on a small Crook County farm. The pig co-mingled with HPAI-affected chickens and ducks. 

On November 15, 2024, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza in a person linked to an outbreak affecting birds at a commercial poultry operation in Clackamas County. The individual experienced only mild illness and has fully recovered.

Avian Flu is a very stable virus that can live for up to 55 days. This virus can live in saliva, feces, and respiratory secretions and can be transmitted via inhalation, eye, nose, or mouth contact. 

Symptoms to Watch for in Felines: 

  • Fever

  • Lethargy

  • Inappetence

  • Conjunctivitis

  • Copious oculonasal discharge

  • Dyspnea

  • Neurologic signs (e.g., tremors, seizures, ataxia, or blindness)

Cats, including both domestic and wild cats, are particularly sensitive to H5N1/HPAI avian influenza, and care should be taken not to expose these animals to the virus. Dogs can also contract H5N1, though they appear less susceptible to the virus than cats. Tips to help protect your pet(cats & dogs) from H5N1: 

  • Do not feed your pet undercooked or raw meat, including uncooked or freeze-dried meat-based diets, treats, or animal products. 

  • Do not feed your pet raw (unpasteurized) milk or colostrum. 

  • Keep pets away from wild birds, poultry, and cattle (especially in areas with known H5N1 outbreaks). 

  • Prevent pets from eating birds or other wild animals. 

  • Wash your hands after touching raw meat and after interacting with poultry, livestock or animals outside your household. 

  • Consider changing clothing and shoes after interacting with animals or birds with unknown health status and before interacting with your own pets. 

  • Please contact us if your pet is experiencing illness, and please mention if your pet has been exposed to any of the above. 

If you suspect your pet has H5N1/HPAI, please contact us immediately.