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The H5N1 avian influenza virus, commonly known as bird flu, has been detected in cats, including pet, feral, and zoo cats according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in 2025. Since the 2024 outbreak in U.S. dairy cattle, multiple feline cases have been linked to raw food consumption and exposure to infected animals. Additionally, avian flu has been confirmed in birds in Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware over the past few weeks. Wild birds, including backyard and migratory species like ducks and geese, can carry the virus without appearing ill, spreading it through their droppings and direct contact. Understanding the symptoms, risks, and prevention measures are essential for protecting both pets and people.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Cats
Cats infected with bird flu may exhibit:
Fever
Lethargy
Cough
Decreased appetite
Eye inflammation and discharge
Nasal discharge
Respiratory distress (difficulty breathing/shortness of breath)
Conjunctivitis (eye tearing, redness, irritation, or discharge from the eye)
Diarrhea
Neurological symptoms (tremors, seizures, incoordination, blindness)
Sudden death
Risks and Transmission
Cats can contract H5N1 through direct exposure to infected livestock, poultry, and wild birds, as well as from consuming contaminated raw animal products. Notably, cats have died after eating raw pet food and unpasteurized milk containing the virus. Several recalls have been issued for contaminated raw pet food products, reinforcing the dangers of feeding raw diets. (See below)
Bird Flu in Dogs
Dogs can also contract H5N1, though they appear less susceptible than cats.
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Dogs
While H5N1 is less common in dogs, infected animals may show:
Fever
Lethargy
Reduced appetite
Eye and nasal discharge
Respiratory distress
Neurological symptoms such as tremors or seizures
Prevention Measures
To reduce the risk of H5N1 infection:
Avoid feeding raw diets – Do not offer raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk, or raw pet food to your pets.
Prevent pets from eating wild or dead birds or other animals.
Limit outdoor access – Keep cats indoors to prevent contact with wild birds, poultry, cattle, infected animals and their environments.
Restrict contact – Keep dogs away from wild birds, poultry, cattle and their environments. Don’t touch sick or dead birds, their feces or litter or any surface or water source that might be contaminated with saliva, feces, or any other bodily fluids.
Practice good hygiene – Wash hands thoroughly after handling animals and consider changing clothing and shoes before interacting with your pets.
Report illness – If your pet appears sick, inform our hospital of any potential exposure to livestock, poultry, or wildlife.
Contact our hospital first for advice before bringing your pet(s) in for examination
Symptoms of Bird Flu in Backyard Flocks and Pet Birds
Birds infected with H5N1 may show one or more of the following signs:
Sudden death with no prior symptoms
Lethargy or decreased appetite
Swelling or purple discoloration of body parts
Reduced egg production or abnormal eggs
Respiratory signs such as nasal discharge, coughing, or sneezing
Lack of coordination
Diarrhea
Prevention Measures
Pet bird owners and those with backyard flocks should stay updated on HPAI outbreaks in their area. In regions with active cases, taking certain steps can help reduce the spread of the virus:
Keep pet birds indoors or ensure that areas housing backyard birds are securely enclosed and protected from contact with wild birds and their droppings.
Wash or disinfect hands before and after handling birds, as well as when moving birds between enclosures.
Store feed, water, equipment, and supplies in a secure place, away from wild birds and rodents.
Limit access to your flock by visitors and avoid visiting other bird facilities.
Be familiar with the symptoms of HPAI and promptly notify local animal health authorities if you suspect an infection.
Contact our hospital first for advice before bringing your bird(s) in for examination.
Human Transmission
Although human cases of illness from pet exposure are rare, they have been documented. It's essential to follow safety protocols when handling sick animals or potentially contaminated materials. For further information, CDC offers additional resources on this topic, and this article is not intended to replace professional medical advice.
What to Do if You Suspect Bird Flu
If your pet shows symptoms of bird flu, contact Aardvark Animal Hospital immediately for instructions BEFORE scheduling or bringing your pet in for an examination. Prompt isolation is necessary to prevent virus transmission to other animals and people. Inform us of any potential exposure to raw food, infected animals, or contaminated environments. Since there is no specific treatment for H5N1 in cats, dogs, or birds, supportive care will depend on the severity of symptoms, and hospitalization outside of our facility may be required.
Final Thoughts
With increasing cases of H5N1 in cats, pet owners must take precautions to protect their animals. Avoid raw diets, limit outdoor exposure, and maintain strict hygiene to reduce risks. Dr. Thomas and our medical team at Aardvark will remain vigilant, report suspected cases and will follow biosecurity guidelines to ensure the safety of both pets and humans.
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Additional Recall Alert & Expert Recommendation
Dr. Thomas strongly advises against feeding pets raw diets, as discussed in a previous blog post. As new cases emerge, the risk of exposure to H5N1 through contaminated raw food is significant, and pet owners should prioritize safety by choosing properly cooked, commercial pet food.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and CDC provide updated guidelines and resources on avian influenza in pets.
Recent Recall Alert
In December 2024, Northwest Naturals issued a recall for its 2-lb Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food after it tested positive for H5N1. This contaminated product, with best-by dates of May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026, was distributed in multiple states and British Columbia, Canada. A house cat in Washington County died after consuming the recalled food.
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