Please be aware that avian influenza A (H5N1) has been diagnosed in our area. As it continues to circulate locally and across the country, pets are potentially at risk of infection. A variety of animals can become sick, but cats are especially susceptible to severe illness which often results in death.
Cats can be exposed to avian influenza through:
- Contact with infected animals including wild birds, poultry, farm animals, and wildlife
- Eating raw food or raw treats (this includes commercial raw diets, some of which have unfortunately led to fatal illness)
- Drinking unpasteurized milk or milk products
- Contact with humans that have been exposed to virus particles, for instance people on affected farms that bring the virus home on their skin, clothes, shoes, equipment, etc.
- Contact with infected humans
Signs of avian influenza in cats:
- General signs of illness like lethargy, loss of appetite, or fever
- Respiratory signs such as coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge, rapid breathing, or difficult breathing
- Eye discharge, red eyes, or other eye abnormalities
- Neurological signs like trouble walking, circling, tremors, or seizures, or blindness
- Signs can progress very rapidly and sudden death can occur
Tips to prevent avian influenza in cats:
- Keep cats indoors
- Prevent exposure to birds/wildlife or infected humans
- Keep cats away from contaminated environments, such as infected farms
- Do not feed raw food, raw treats, or commercial raw diets
- Do not allow cats to drink unpasteurized milk or milk products
- Humans should avoid exposure to sick or dead birds/wildlife
- If there is any possible human exposure to avian influenza, change your clothes/shoes and wash exposed skin well before risking any contact with your cat
If you suspect your cat has avian influenza, seek veterinary care immediately. Let veterinary team members know of any possible concern for avian influenza so appropriate measures can be taken. In addition, take precautions to limit human exposure (general guidelines can be found on the CDC’s website) and prevent cat contact with immunocompromised people. If any humans become ill, seek medical care and inform local public health officials.
CAUTIONARY NOTE: Signs of avian influenza in cats can look like rabies. Please be sure your cat has a current rabies vaccine because neurological cats not vaccinated for rabies would likely require euthanasia for rabies testing.
As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out. We wish you and your fabulous felines good health!