The recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), specifically the H5N1 strain, in dairy cattle in the United States since March 2024 has raised concerns about its spread to other animals, including domestic cats. Since the outbreak began, dozens of cats have been confirmed to have contracted this virus, highlighting a worrying trend for cat owners, especially those feeding raw diets. These cases span various cat populations, from barn and feral cats to indoor pets and even big cats in zoos and wildlife settings.
Interestingly, the deaths of barn cats on dairy farms actually played a crucial role in the initial detection of avian flu in dairy cattle. However, the susceptibility of cats to H5N1 was already known prior to this outbreak. Previous cases in felines were linked to exposure to infected poultry or wild birds. Now, a new and direct threat has emerged: contaminated raw pet food, particularly those containing poultry like duck, turkey, or chicken.
Raw Food Recalls Spark Concern
In early December, Northwest Naturals, a pet food company, initiated a voluntary recall of a specific batch of its 2-lb Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food. This action came after the product tested positive for the H5N1 virus.
The recall by the Portland, Oregon-based company included products with “best if used by” dates of May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. The potentially contaminated raw food was distributed across numerous states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, as well as in British Columbia, Canada.
Tragically, a house cat in Washington County died after contracting H5N1, and the source was traced back to the recalled raw frozen pet food. Genetic testing by the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (OVDL) at Oregon State University and the USDA’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) confirmed an exact genetic match between the virus found in the food and the virus that infected the cat.
Dr. Ryan Scholz, Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) State Veterinarian, stated with confidence, “We are confident that this cat contracted H5N1 by eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food.” He emphasized that the cat was strictly indoors and had no environmental exposure, further solidifying the link between the contaminated raw food and the infection.
While official statements from the USDA and FDA regarding this recall are pending, the ODA collaborated with Northwest Naturals to facilitate the voluntary recall. Consumers are strongly advised to immediately discontinue feeding the affected product to their pets and to ensure its safe disposal. Pet owners are also urged to closely monitor their cats for any signs of illness and to seek veterinary attention if necessary.
Adding to the concern, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) issued a warning on December 31, 2024, about a confirmed H5N1 infection in a house cat that had consumed raw pet food from Monarch Raw Pet Food. Further investigation revealed that four other cats in the same household were presumed to have contracted the virus after eating the same product, sold at farmers’ markets in various California locations.
The LACDPH is also investigating another cluster of cases involving four cats from a different household who fell ill and died after consuming raw unpasteurized milk, demonstrating multiple pathways for potential H5N1 exposure through raw animal products.
Recognizing Symptoms and Protecting Your Cat
The signs of H5N1 infection in cats can be severe and include fever, lethargy, excessive discharge from the eyes and nose, breathing difficulties, and neurological problems. The disease can progress rapidly and often leads to death in affected cats. It’s important to note that rabies should also be considered when diagnosing cats exhibiting neurological signs.
Although human infections remain rare, health experts emphasize the critical need for proper hygiene when handling raw pet food. They also recommend taking personal protective measures when interacting with animals that are sick or have died.
Veterinarians are advised to implement strict protocols to protect themselves and their staff, following guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for managing potential zoonotic diseases. This includes using appropriate isolation and handling procedures for suspected cases.
Any cat suspected of having H5N1 should be reported to state animal health officials, state public health veterinarians, or state veterinary diagnostic laboratories. These authorities can provide guidance on sample collection and testing.
To protect both pets and people, state and federal experts strongly recommend avoiding the consumption of raw or undercooked meat products, as well as unpasteurized dairy products.
Furthermore, experts advise the following preventative measures:
- Minimize contact with sick or deceased animals.
- Keep cats indoors to limit their exposure to wild birds and other wildlife that may carry the virus.
- Change clothes and shoes and thoroughly wash exposed skin after any interaction with sick or dead animals, and before interacting with your cat.
- Keep pets and poultry away from wild waterfowl.
By taking these precautions, cat owners can significantly reduce the risk of H5N1 infection for their feline companions and themselves. The recent cases linked to raw food highlight the importance of informed decisions regarding pet nutrition and the potential dangers associated with raw diets.
