HPAI (H5N1), commonly known as the H5N1 bird flu, is a fast-spreading avian influenza virus. While the risk remains low at this time, domestic pets may potentially be at risk. For cats, the infection can be fatal, while dogs tend to experience milder symptoms. As a pet owner, you can take precautions to prevent exposure through food and the environment.

How the H5N1 Bird Flu Spreads

As you know, viruses mutate and the spread of disease is fluid over time. Currently, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)  reports, “The H5 bird flu is widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows.” This flu virus can be transmitted by consuming unpasteurized milk, raw meat, eggs and infected wild birds. Following proper food-handling and safety measures can reduce the risk to your pets.

How to Keep Your Pets Safe

In the U.S., there is a trend to feed pets more human-grade food, but it doesn’t come without dangers. Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Veterinary Medical Association discourage the feeding of uncooked meat diets to companion animals due to the potential presence of pathogens, including H5N1. Taking these precautions can help prevent infection in your fur babies.

• Avoid feeding them raw or undercooked meat, eggs or unpasteurized milk.
• Follow USDA guidelines for cooking meat thoroughly before feeding to pets.
• Keep pets indoors to limit exposure to wild birds that may be infected.
• Prevent them from hunting or consuming wild birds.

Recognizing the Symptoms in Pets

Watch for these warning signs of H5N1 bird flu in cats and dogs. If your pet shows any of these symptoms and has been exposed to raw food, wild birds or unpasteurized milk, seek veterinary care immediately.

• Fever
• Lethargy
• Low appetite
• Red or inflamed eyes
• Discharge from the eyes or nose
• Difficulty breathing
• Neurological symptoms (seizures, tremors, blindness)

At Wags Animal Hospital, the health and safety of your furry family members is our top priority. By taking these precautions, you can reduce their risk of H5N1 infection. If your pet shows any of these symptoms with known exposure, don’t wait. Reach out to us right away for expert care and guidance.