Rising Cases of Bird Flu in Cats Raise Concerns for Pet Owners and Wildlife

Tim Hanson never imagined raw chicken pet food could harbor danger when he chose premium kibble for his beloved cat, Kira. Unfortunately, in February, Kira developed a fever and lethargy, leading to a devastating bird flu diagnosis. Despite efforts to save her, Hanson made the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize her. He hopes to raise awareness about the risks after filing a lawsuit against Wild Coast Pet Foods, the pet food manufacturer implicated in Kira’s illness, seeking $8,000 for veterinary costs.

Cases of bird flu in cats are increasing, with 126 infections reported in the U.S. since 2022, primarily linked to contaminated food. Experts warn that the virus, which is highly fatal for cats, can spread through raw poultry in pet food and even raw milk. Cats exposed to infected chickens or their byproducts, like milk, are at risk. A study showed about 12% of stray cats in the Netherlands had bird flu antibodies.

There’s increasing vigilance as pet food recalls surge, and the CDC highlights the potential for cats to act as transmission bridges for viruses. Pet owners must consider food safety seriously: the shifting landscape of food supply could put beloved pets at risk. Kira’s story serves as a poignant reminder of vigilance against hidden dangers in pet care.