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Avian Influenza in Cats: Exposure to Birds, Eating H5N1 Infected Meat – Everything to Keep Your Cat Safe from Bird Flu

by Vetic Editorial
by Vetic Editorial 103 views
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The first instance of avian influenza (H5N1) in cattle was recorded in March 2024. Ever since then, there have been reports of avian influenza in cats. Indoor-outdoor cats, feral cats and big cats (in zoos and wild) have contracted the highly pathogenic bird flu. House cats seem to be particularly susceptible to the avian influenza virus (H5N1) strain. 

Many of the cases of bird flu in cats are linked directly or indirectly to exposure to wild birds or even poultry. According to a publication by the School of Public Health, University of Maryland, the survival rate of cats infected with avian influenza is as low as 33%. 

Avian Influenza in Cats: How is the Infection Spreading?

The infographic provided by "vetic" is titled "How is Avian Influenza in Cats Spreading?" The central focus is on the various ways the disease can spread among cats. The visual design breaks down the information into five key points, making it easy to understand and follow. Firstly, the infographic points out the direct link to food sources as a means of spreading avian influenza. This implies that the disease can be transmitted through contaminated food. Secondly, it mentions the risk through raw meat (specifically referring to a BARF diet) and milk. This indicates that feeding cats raw meat and milk increases the chances of infection. Thirdly, it highlights the danger posed by hunting infected birds and mice. Cats that hunt these animals are at a higher risk of contracting the virus. Fourthly, the infographic addresses the contact with people who handle infected poultry. This suggests that humans who come into contact with infected poultry can inadvertently transmit the disease to their cats. Lastly, it emphasizes the exposure to infected cats as a significant risk factor. This means that cats that come into contact with other infected cats are more likely to contract avian influenza.

The most recent cases show a direct link between cats and the source of food. There are reported links between cats and raw meat (BARF Diet) or milk. 

Other sources of avian influenza in cats can include –

  • Exposure to infected birds through hunting (indoor-outdoor cats or outdoor cats)
  • Exposure to people who handle birds (poultry) and dairy products
  • Exposure to infected cats (from outdoor cats to indoor cats)

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Avian Influenza in Cats?

The infographic titled "Can Avian Influenza in Cats Make Humans Sick?" by "Vetic" delves into the question of whether avian influenza in cats can be transmitted to humans. The visual layout is divided into three informative sections. Firstly, it clarifies that there have been no reported cases of cat-to-human transmission of avian influenza. This reassurance is crucial for pet owners concerned about their safety. Secondly, it acknowledges that while the risk is extremely low, it is not entirely absent. This point serves as a reminder that vigilance is necessary, even if the probability is minimal. Lastly, the infographic emphasizes that individuals with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk, highlighting the importance of taking extra precautions for those who are more vulnerable. Overall, the infographic provides a comprehensive overview of the potential risks and reassurances regarding avian influenza in cats.

The signs and symptoms of avian influenza in cats can be quite severe. It begins like any common viral infection in cats but quickly progresses to more severe signs, including –

  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sneezing and coughing
  • Severe depression
  • Neurological signs (seizures, ataxia, circling and blindness)
  • Respiratory distress 

Many of the early signs of H1N5 influenza are identical to feline herpesvirus and calicivirus infections. That makes it challenging for pet parents as well as veterinarians to differentially diagnose the disease before it progresses to neurological signs. 

How is Avian Influenza in Cats Diagnosed?

Primarily, avian influenza in cats is assessed through clinical signs and symptoms as mentioned above. 

The graphic provided by "Vetic" is titled "How is Avian Influenza in Cats Diagnosed?" The central focus is on the diagnostic methods employed to identify avian influenza in felines. The visual layout presents three primary methods, aiming for clarity and ease of understanding. Firstly, it mentions diagnosis through clinical signs. This implies that veterinarians assess observable symptoms in the cat that may indicate the presence of avian influenza. Secondly, the infographic talks about blood and urine tests as diagnostic tools. These tests help in detecting the infection by analyzing the cat's biological samples. Lastly, it highlights molecular testing via nasal swabs. This method involves collecting nasal swab samples from the cat and conducting molecular tests to detect the presence of the virus. The overarching message of the infographic is to educate the audience about the various ways avian influenza can be diagnosed in cats, emphasizing the combination of clinical signs, laboratory tests, and molecular testing for accurate identification.

However, the veterinarian will also –

  • Collect blood and urine samples for testing
  • Collect nasal swabs for molecular testing

In most veterinary clinics, molecular testing for H5N1 in cats is still not available. Speak with your veterinarian to know about the availability of molecular testing for avian influenza. Choose a cat hospital with dedicated blood and urine testing facilities. The treatment is time-sensitive. 

Treatment for Avian Influenza in Cats

The image from "Vetic" discusses the treatment options available for Avian Influenza in cats. The main content is divided into three primary points. Firstly, it states that there is no antiviral medication available specifically for treating this condition in cats. Secondly, it emphasizes that the focus of treatment is on managing the symptoms, which involves providing supportive care to relieve the cat’s discomfort and help them recover. Lastly, the infographic highlights the importance of isolating infected cats to prevent the spread of the virus to other animals. Additionally, there is a note at the bottom of the image indicating that cats with FeLV (Feline Leukemia Virus) or FIV (Feline Immunodeficiency Virus) may require emergency care, underscoring the need for prompt and specialized attention for these vulnerable cats. This information is crucial for pet owners to understand how to handle cases of Avian Influenza in their cats effectively and responsibly.

The treatment for bird flu in cats aims to reduce their signs and manage their overall health. 

There are no anti-virals for avian influenza in cats as of now. Veterinarians provide fluid therapy and/or medicines to infected cats. They provide relief from congestion, respiratory distress and neurological signs. 

Some cats may not need medication or intensive care at all. They are subclinical cases of avian influenza. However, they still require complete isolation since they become carriers of bird flu and can infect other cats. 

Cats with FeLV (feline leukemia virus) and FIV (feline immunodeficiency virus) may show more severe symptoms. They require emergency veterinary intervention. 

How Can You Prevent Avian Influenza in Your Cat?

The infographic is titled "Can Avian Influenza in Cats Make Humans Sick?" and is produced by "Vetic". The central query it explores is whether avian influenza in cats poses a risk to human health. The graphic is visually structured to present three main points clearly and concisely. Firstly, the infographic asserts that there are no reported cases of avian influenza being transmitted from cats to humans. This point reassures readers by highlighting the absence of documented instances of such transmission. Secondly, the infographic acknowledges that, although the risk of transmission is very low, it is not zero. This statement underscores the need for cautiousness and awareness, despite the minimal risk involved. Lastly, the infographic emphasizes that individuals with compromised immune systems are at a higher risk. This is a crucial piece of information, as it advises people with weakened immune defenses to be more vigilant about potential health risks. The overall purpose of this infographic is to inform the audience that while the likelihood of avian influenza spreading from cats to humans is extremely low, it remains important to take precautions, especially for those with fragile immune systems.

Over the last 2 years, close to 100 cats have been infected by the H5N1 virus. The risk of exposure to and infection by the avian influenza virus in cats depends on multiple factors, such as you cat’s –

Lifestyle Change

Completely indoor cats with little access to the outdoors or outdoor cats have a very low risk of exposure to bird flu. Outdoor cats who are free to roam and hunt are definitely at a higher risk of exposure and avian influenza infection. 

H5N1 has been shown to be infectious to other mammals including mice, ferrets and even dogs! Keeping your cat indoors is definitely a way to minimize their exposure to bird flu.

Choose Commercial Food

If you are feeding dry commercial food to your cat their chances of getting the H5N1 infection from food sources is next to nil. However, if you follow the BARF diet or prefer raw meat for your cats, you need to understand that poultry and cattle can both carry the avian flu virus. This also includes retail food that contains raw meat for pets. You should refrain from feeding raw food to your pets!

It can result in direct exposure and infection of indoor cats. Genetic testing confirmed the link between the viruses in the raw food and milk, and the cats who contracted avian influenza from consuming the food. 

Avoid Indirect Exposure

Are you someone who feeds birds? Do you visit poultry farms or even shops that sell poultry products? Then you may be putting your cats at risk. You need to use PPE and decontaminate your belongings before you reach home. Indirect exposure has been a reasonable cause of avian influenza infection in cats since March 2024. 

You need to contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any signs of distress or discomfort in your cat. 

Can Avian Influenza in Cats Make Humans Sick?

This infographic from "Vetic" explores the potential risk of avian influenza in cats and whether it can be transmitted to humans. The title of the infographic is "Can Avian Influenza in Cats Make Humans Sick?" The content is divided into three main points. Firstly, it states that there are no reported cases of cat-to-human transmission. Secondly, it mentions that while the risk is very low, it is not zero. Lastly, it highlights that individuals who are immunocompromised are at a higher risk. This information is crucial as it clarifies that although the risk of transmission is minimal, it is still important to be cautious, especially for those with weakened immune systems.

As of January 2025, there have been no reported cases of cat-to-human transmission of the H5N1 virus. Avian influenza in cats is a real threat, but the chances of contracting bird flu from your cat is very low.

People with immunosuppression or undergoing chemotherapy may be at a higher risk of becoming infected. AVMA says that the chances of cat-to-human transmission of H5N1 is extremely low but not absolutely zero. 

Most people who have been infected with H5N1 are farmers, poultry workers, cattle herders or those who work directly with infected animals and birds. 

Can Avian Influenza in Cats be Transmitted to Dogs?

As per FDA reports, dogs can get bird flu but the signs and symptoms of avian influenza in dogs are definitely milder as compared to cats. Cats can transmit the virus to dogs, but the intensity of infection is significantly low.

This also includes dogs on the BARF diet. There is no conclusive evidence on why cats are more susceptible to this strain as compared to dogs.

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