Bird Flu (H5N1) in Cats: Symptoms, Risks, and How to Protect Your Pet

You may have heard reports about H5N1 avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, appearing in mammals. Recently, confirmed cases in domestic cats across numerous US states have raised concerns among pet owners. And at Oz Animal Hospital, we’re hearing more and more questions about this issue, and we want to keep folks informed.

Read on to learn how cats contract the virus, how to recognize symptoms, and which preventative measures are crucial for protecting your pet.

How Are Cats Catching Bird Flu?

While previously rare in mammals, newer strains of H5N1 have shown the ability to infect various species, including our feline companions.

Cats are typically exposed to the H5N1 virus through contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. Key transmission routes include:

  • Dietary Exposure:
    • Drinking raw milk from infected animals.
    • Eating raw pet food containing infected poultry (duck, chicken, turkey).
  • Environmental Contact:
    • Exposure to or consuming infected wild birds (dead or alive).
    • Contact with contaminated clothing or footwear (especially shoes worn near poultry or wild waterfowl).
    • Exposure to environments where infected wild waterfowl congregate.
  • Contact with Infected Animals: Contact with infected rodents or other mammals carrying the virus.

Unfortunately, infected cats can potentially spread the virus to other pets in the household, too. That means spotting signs early is more important than ever.

Recognizing the Symptoms: Signs of H5N1 in Cats

H5N1 infections in cats are often serious and potentially life-threatening, with a high mortality rate reported in diagnosed cases. Prompt veterinary attention is critical if you observe any of the following severe clinical signs:

  • Lethargy: Extreme tiredness or lack of energy.
  • Fever
  • Loss of Appetite
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Discharge: From the eyes and/or nose.
  • Neurological Issues: Tremors, seizures, incoordination (ataxia), or blindness.

What To Do If You Suspect Bird Flu

Act Immediately. If you are concerned your cat may have contracted bird flu, especially if they show the symptoms above, start by:

  1. Contacting Your Veterinarian: Call your vet right away. Inform them of your concerns and any potential exposure your cat may have had (e.g., outdoor access, eating wild birds, consuming raw milk/meat).
  2. Following Veterinary Guidance: Your vet will advise on the next steps.
  3. Understanding Treatment: Currently, there are no specific antiviral drugs available for H5N1 in cats. Treatment focuses on supportive care to manage symptoms and help the cat’s body fight the infection.

Protecting Your Cat: Prevention is Key

Since there is currently no H5N1 vaccine for cats, prevention focuses on reducing exposure risk:

  • Keep Cats Indoors: This significantly reduces the chances of contact with infected birds or contaminated environments.
  • Avoid Raw Diets: Do not feed cats raw meat (especially poultry) or raw milk. Cook all food thoroughly!
  • Prevent Hunting: Discourage your cat from catching or eating wild birds or rodents.
  • Practice Good Hygiene: If you work with or have contact with poultry, livestock, or wild birds, wash your hands thoroughly and change your clothes and shoes before interacting with your pets.

While the number of confirmed feline H5N1 cases is relatively small compared to the total cat population, the severity of the illness warrants caution. By understanding how the virus spreads and taking preventative measures, you can significantly reduce the risk to your cat.

 And remember: if you suspect exposure or see concerning symptoms, immediate veterinary consultation is essential, so get in touch with us right away!

Looking for more specifics? Check out this article for additional information courtesy of  Leyi Wang, a virologist at the College of Veterinary Medicine.

At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. Our team takes the time to understand your pet’s lifestyle, habits, and medical history to provide tailored recommendations for vaccines, preventative care, and treatment options. Choose Oz Animal Hospital for exceptional veterinary care that prioritizes your pet’s well-being and peace of mind! To schedule your appointment, contact us today.