Oregon Just Logged Its First Case Of New Virus

A recent case of bird flu in an Oregon house cat has sparked concerns about the virus’s potential spread to domestic pets, prompting a pet food recall and urgent warnings for pet owners.

What next? Another 2020?

At a Glance

  • An Oregon house cat died from bird flu linked to raw turkey pet food
  • Northwest Naturals issued a voluntary recall of two batches of frozen pet food
  • Bird flu has been spreading among wild birds, chickens, turkeys, and dairy cattle
  • Cats are particularly susceptible to the bird flu virus
  • Pet owners are advised to avoid feeding raw meat and keep pets away from wild birds

Pet Food Recall Triggered by Cat’s Death

The recent death of a house cat in Oregon due to bird flu has raised alarm bells among pet owners and health officials alike. The incident prompted Northwest Naturals to issue a voluntary recall on two batches of their 2-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food. This recall underscores the growing concern about the potential for bird flu to affect domestic pets, particularly cats.

The recalled pet food was sold in several U.S. states and British Columbia, Canada, with specific “best if used by” dates. Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised to dispose of them immediately and seek a refund from their place of purchase. This precautionary measure aims to prevent further cases of bird flu in domestic cats.

Bird Flu’s Expanding Reach

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, has been spreading among wild birds, chickens, turkeys, and other animals for some time. In March, the virus was confirmed in U.S. dairy cattle, marking a significant expansion of its reach. While the virus typically causes mild illnesses in humans, primarily affecting those working on dairy or poultry farms, its impact on animals can be severe.

“Raw milk, raw meat products can be and are a vector for carrying this virus,” Dr. Michael Q. Bailey said.

The spread of bird flu among various species has led to increased vigilance in the agricultural sector. Infected farms often resort to culling all birds to prevent the disease from spreading further, highlighting the economic and animal welfare concerns associated with the virus.

Protecting Cats from Bird Flu

Cats are particularly susceptible to the bird flu virus, with cases linked to contact with wild birds or poultry. To protect cats from bird flu, experts advise against feeding them unpasteurized dairy or raw meat. Dr. Bailey emphasized the importance of keeping cats indoors, stating, “because you don’t know what they’re getting into. Cats are natural hunters, and one of the animals they love to hunt are birds.”

Pet owners should be vigilant for symptoms of bird flu in cats, which include loss of appetite, lethargy, fever, inflamed eyes, discharge, difficulty breathing, tremors, or seizures. Dr. Bailey warns that if a cat shows these symptoms, “There’s something wrong,” and immediate veterinary care should be sought.

Broader Implications for Pet Care

While cats are more vulnerable to bird flu, dogs are less susceptible. However, pet owners are advised to ensure all pets consume only thoroughly cooked foods. The recent cases serve as a reminder of the potential risks associated with feeding pets raw meat or allowing them to interact with wild animals.

The situation also highlights the interconnectedness of animal and human health. As the virus continues to adapt and spread across species, public health officials are closely monitoring its evolution. The recent cases in cats and dairy cattle underscore the importance of a One Health approach, which recognizes the connections between human, animal, and environmental health.

As investigations continue, including one by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health into the deaths of four house cats that consumed recalled raw milk, pet owners are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize their pets’ health and safety.

Be careful out there!

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