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A popular cat food brand, Wild Coast Raw, has recalled its frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula due to possible contamination with bird flu (H5N1). The affected products were sold in Washington and Oregon, and pet owners are urged to discard them immediately. This recall follows a similar case in December when another cat food brand, Northwest Naturals, issued a recall after a cat died from consuming contaminated food.
What Is Bird Flu in Cats ?
Bird flu (H5N1) is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can also infect other animals, including cats. While cases in cats are rare, they can be severe, with a high mortality rate. Infected cats may develop serious health complications, making early detection and prevention essential.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Cats
If your cat has consumed contaminated food or has been exposed to infected birds, watch for the following symptoms:
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Fever
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Lethargy
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Loss of appetite
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Difficulty breathing
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Eye redness and discharge
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Runny nose
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Seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms, take your cat to the vet immediately.
How to Protect Your Cat from Bird Flu
1. Avoid Raw Food Diets
Raw pet food is more likely to be contaminated with bird flu and harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. Stick to high-quality commercial cat food that has been cooked or processed.
2. Keep Your Cat Indoors
Outdoor cats are at a higher risk of contracting bird flu by hunting infected birds or coming into contact with contaminated environments. Keeping your cat indoors minimizes the risk of exposure.
3. Do Not Give Raw Milk
Unpasteurized milk may contain harmful viruses and bacteria, including H5N1. Avoid giving your cat raw dairy products to protect them from infection.
Immediate Steps and Veterinary Advice
If your cat has consumed the recalled Wild Coast Raw cat food, follow these steps:
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Stop Feeding: Immediately discontinue the recalled food.
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Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye on any signs of illness and document any changes in your cat’s health.
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Isolate Your Cat: If possible, keep them separate from other pets to prevent potential spread.
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Visit a Veterinarian: Inform your vet about the exposure and seek medical advice. Your vet may recommend testing for H5N1.
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Dispose of Contaminated Food Safely: Place the recalled food in a sealed bag and discard it. Do not compost or feed it to other animals.
How to Report Suspected Bird Flu Cases in Pets
If your cat shows symptoms of bird flu or has consumed contaminated food, report the case to your local animal health authorities. In the U.S., you can contact:
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FDA’s Safety Reporting Portal (www.safetyreporting.hhs.gov)
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Local Department of Agriculture
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State Veterinary Office
By reporting cases, you help prevent the spread of bird flu and contribute to public health efforts.
Conclusion
Bird flu in cats is rare but serious. The recent cat food recall serves as a reminder to pet owners to be cautious about their cat’s diet. Avoid raw food, keep your cat indoors, and stay informed about pet food recalls. If your cat shows symptoms or has consumed recalled food, seek veterinary care immediately.
