Recent reports have highlighted a concerning issue for cat owners: a Cat Food Recall triggered by the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), specifically the H5N1 strain. This situation underscores the susceptibility of cats to avian flu and the potential risks associated with certain types of pet food, particularly raw diets. As a cat owner, understanding the details of this recall and taking appropriate precautions is crucial to protect your feline companion.
Understanding the Cat Food Recall and Avian Flu (HPAI)
The emergence of HPAI in dairy cattle in the U.S. starting in March 2024 has been accompanied by a concerning number of cases in cats. Initially observed in barn and feral cats, the virus has since been detected in indoor cats, as well as larger felines in zoos and wildlife settings. It was even the deaths of barn cats at dairy farms that played a key role in veterinarians discovering the virus in dairy cattle, highlighting the vulnerability of felines to H5N1. Prior to this, cats were already known to be susceptible to avian flu through exposure to poultry and wild birds. Now, a new transmission route has emerged: contaminated raw pet food.
Raw Food Contamination: A Key Factor
The current cat food recall stems from the discovery of HPAI contamination in raw pet food products. This is a significant development, as it indicates that raw diets containing poultry ingredients like duck, turkey, or chicken can be a source of H5N1 exposure for cats. Unpasteurized milk, often included in raw diets, has also been identified as a potential contamination pathway.
Recalled Cat Food Brands and Products
Several cases of HPAI in cats have been directly linked to specific raw pet food brands, leading to recalls and public health warnings.
Northwest Naturals Recall Details
In early December, Northwest Naturals initiated a voluntary recall of a specific batch of its 2-lb Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food. This recall was prompted by a positive test for H5N1 in the product. The affected products carry “best if used by” dates of May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. Distribution of this contaminated food spanned across multiple states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, and even reached British Columbia, Canada.
The link between this recalled food and feline illness was tragically confirmed when a house cat in Washington County succumbed to H5N1 after consuming the Northwest Naturals raw frozen pet food. Genetic testing conducted by the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (OVDL) and the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) established a direct genetic match between the virus found in the food and the virus infecting the cat. Dr. Ryan Scholz, Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) State Veterinarian, stated with confidence that the cat contracted H5N1 directly from the recalled pet food, emphasizing the cat’s indoor lifestyle and the confirmed genetic match. While formal statements from the USDA and FDA are pending, the ODA collaborated with Northwest Naturals to implement this voluntary recall. Consumers are strongly advised to immediately stop feeding the recalled product and dispose of it safely, while monitoring their pets for any signs of illness.
Monarch Raw Pet Food and Other Cases
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) issued a warning at the end of 2024 regarding another raw pet food brand, Monarch Raw Pet Food. A house cat confirmed to have H5N1 infection had consumed Monarch Raw Pet Food products. Furthermore, four other cats within the same household were presumed to have contracted the virus after consuming the same food. Monarch Raw Pet Food products were available at farmers’ markets in various California locations, including Laguna Niguel, Orange, San Jacinto, and Fountain Valley. The LACDPH is also investigating a separate incident involving four cats from another household who became sick and died after consuming raw unpasteurized milk, further highlighting the risks associated with raw diets.
Symptoms of HPAI in Cats
Recognizing the signs of H5N1 infection in cats is vital for prompt veterinary care. Symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Lethargy and weakness
- Discharge from the eyes and nose (often heavy)
- Respiratory distress, such as labored breathing or rapid breathing
- Neurological signs, which can include seizures, incoordination, or changes in behavior
It is important to note that rabies should also be considered in cats displaying neurological symptoms. HPAI in cats can progress rapidly, leading to severe illness and death.
Protecting Your Cat and Yourself
While human infections with H5N1 remain rare, it is crucial to practice good hygiene when handling raw pet food and to take precautions when interacting with potentially sick animals.
Prevention Tips for Cat Owners
To minimize the risk of HPAI infection in your cat:
- Avoid Raw Diets: The most direct way to protect your cat from foodborne HPAI is to avoid feeding raw pet food, especially those containing poultry. Opt for commercially prepared, cooked cat food from reputable brands.
- No Unpasteurized Milk: Do not give your cat unpasteurized milk.
- Limit Outdoor Access: Keep cats indoors as much as possible to reduce their exposure to wild birds and other wildlife that may carry the virus.
- Avoid Contact with Sick Animals: Limit your cat’s contact with any sick or dead animals, including wild birds.
Veterinary and Public Health Recommendations
Veterinarians are advised to follow CDC guidelines for handling suspected zoonotic diseases, including using appropriate personal protective equipment and isolation protocols. Cats suspected of having H5N1 should be reported to state animal health officials, state public health veterinarians, or state veterinary diagnostic laboratories for guidance on testing and further management.
Public health experts reiterate the importance of avoiding consumption of raw or undercooked meat and unpasteurized dairy products for both humans and pets. They also recommend:
- Limiting contact with sick or dead animals.
- Changing clothes and shoes, and thoroughly washing exposed skin after contact with potentially infected animals, before interacting with your cat.
- Keeping pets and poultry away from wild waterfowl.
Conclusion
The recent cat food recall due to HPAI contamination is a serious reminder of the potential risks associated with raw pet food and the ongoing threat of avian flu. By staying informed about recalls, understanding the symptoms of HPAI in cats, and implementing preventative measures, cat owners can take proactive steps to safeguard the health and well-being of their beloved feline companions. If you have been feeding your cat recalled raw food or observe any signs of illness, consult your veterinarian immediately. Staying vigilant and informed is key to protecting your cat during this evolving situation.
