Cat Owners Beware: Bird Flu Found in Recalled Pet Food Sold in Minnesota

BIRD FLU SHOWING UP IN CATS

The Bird Flu? How in the world could my house cat get the bird flu? Although it is not common for pets to catch Bird Flu, there is a strain that seems to be affecting cats. The strain is Type A H5N1. Since March or 2024, cats that are both wild animals, zoo cats, and even house cats have been catching the virus, according to an online article.

CAT FOOD RECALL IN MINNESOTA CAUSE OF BIRD FLU IN CATS

A cat food company called Northwest Naturals, based out of Oregon, announced a voluntary recall of one batch of 2-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food. The ‘best if used by’ dates are May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. It is recommended that consumers throw away the remaining product, and contact the location it was purchased from for a refund. The product tested positive for the virus and was sold in the following states:

• *MINNESOTA
• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Florida
• Georgia
• Illinois
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• Wisconsin
• Canada’s British Columbia

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TIPS TO KEEP YOUR CATS SAFE

1. Alternative to wandering outdoors
   If your cat is allowed outside, you should know that they get into stuff; especially hunting. One of their favorite things to hunt? Birds. You may never see a bird in your cat's mouth, but that doesn’t mean they haven’t been around a sick bird. Instead of letting your cats wander freely outdoors, consider adding a Catio to your home; A nice fenced-in area or even a large dog kennel works. I have a Catio at my home that is a dog kennel for large breed dogs like Great Dane’s. I have a small litter box in one corner, a plastic chair with a cat bed, fresh water, and a scratching post. My cats can wander, play, sleep, and enjoy the outdoors without most of the outdoors trying to get in. (I can even sit inside and read a book with them if I want to!)
2. Unpasteurized Dairy Products can be dangerous.
   Does your cat like to drink milk? Make sure you keep them away from any unpasteurized dairy products.
3. Cats shouldn't eat raw meat.
   Now, I understand what you're thinking. Cats are natural-born hunters. Yes, they are. Feral cats probably eat a lot of raw mice, birds, and other critters they can catch. But right now, Bird Flu can kill your pet. It’s best to only feed them food that has been cooked thoroughly.
4. Don’t touch dead birds. 
   If you find a dead bird on your property, don’t pick it up and handle it. If you forget and do so, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling it, and certainly don’t touch anyone else, or any of your family pets before cleaning your hands. If you have to dispose of a dead bird, find a way to dispose of it without touching it; such as using a shovel, or grabbing it with a garbage bag.

HOW DO I KNOW IF MY CAT IS SICK WITH BIRD FLU?

The symptoms of a sick cat can be similar to other illnesses, but watch for:

• Playful cats become sleepy cats or hide from you. Lethargic.
• Red or inflamed eyes
• Loss of appetite
• Fever
• Discharge from eyes and nose
• Difficulty breathing
• Tremors or seizures
• Death

CAT FOOD RECALL

Most of the cats that have become infected were mostly through pet food that was recalled. Make sure to check your pet's food against the recalled pet food list.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY CAT HAS SYMPTOMS?

The best thing you can do is to call your veterinarian and ask for advice. It is important to keep your ill cat away from anyone in the home who might have a weakened immune system.