Urgent Alert: Bird Flu Risks for Pets—What You Need to Know

As advocates for your pets' well-being, Onalaska Animal Hospital wants to alert you to potential risks that could affect your furry family members. Recently, reports have surfaced linking cases of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (commonly known as bird flu) to contaminated raw pet food. Here's what you need to know to keep your pets safe.

What is H5N1 Avian Influenza?

H5N1 is a severe strain of bird flu that can affect birds, mammals, and even humans. While it was initially confined to avian populations, H5N1 has been detected in a growing number of mammals, including cats and dogs, and it has been linked to dairy farms in various states. Wisconsin reported its first human case last month after a person was exposed to an infected commercial poultry flock. 

Recent incidents have led to voluntary recalls of certain raw pet food products, including two-pound bags of Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey recipe with best-by dates 5/21/26 B10 and 6/23/26 B1.

If you have any of these products, stop feeding them to your pet immediately. Be sure to dispose of the product in a sealed bag, and clean your pet's food bowl and surrounding area with hot, soapy water. 

How H5N1 Can Affect Pets

H5N1 is highly contagious and can cause severe illness in cats and dogs, though cases in dogs are less common. Whether you have cats, dogs, or both, watch for these symptoms: 

• Sudden lethargy or weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• High fever
• Vomiting or diarrhea 

You may also see a loss of appetite in cats or coughing and sneezing in dogs. 

If your pet shows any of these symptoms, especially after consuming raw food or having exposure to wildlife, seek veterinary care immediately.

Preventing H5N1 in Pets

To protect your pets: 

1. Avoid feeding them raw pet food. Raw pet food can be a source of harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses like H5N1.
2. Limit their outdoor exposure. Keep pets away from areas with known wild bird activity to reduce the risk of exposure.
3. Purchase their food from trusted sources. Stick to reputable brands and avoid any products that have been linked to recalls or public health warnings.
4. Stay informed. Follow updates from reputable organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the American Veterinary Medical Association.
5. Maintain good hygiene. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet food and bowls, and disinfect feeding areas regularly.

 Be Proactive to Prevent Illness

Keeping your pets safe starts with awareness and proactive measures. At Onalaska Animal Hospital, we're committed to keeping you informed about potential risks and offering expert guidance for your pet's health. Whether you have a cat or a dog, knowing the risks and taking precautions can make all the difference. If you have concerns about your pet's diet or notice any unusual symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to our team.