Alarming Spread of H5N1 in Cats Linked to Raw Pet Food: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know!

In a shocking development, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) has reported an increase in H5N1 avian flu infections in domestic cats, with three additional cases confirmed after exposure to raw food or raw milk. This alarming trend has raised red flags among veterinarians and pet owners alike.

As of now, a total of seven cats have been confirmed with H5N1 in Los Angeles County alone. This worrying outbreak is not limited to California; federal health officials have documented numerous H5N1 infections in cats across several states, emphasizing the widespread nature of this threat.

Raw Pet Food Under Scrutiny

Investigations are underway into various brands of raw pet food linked to these infections. Previous reports highlighted two raw food diets consumed by cats in one of the affected households, one of which was found to contain live, infectious H5N1 virus. The Monarch Raw Pet Food brand, popular at California farmers' markets, is among those under scrutiny. Furthermore, Oregon health officials have identified illnesses in cats related to another nationally marketed brand, Northwest Natural.

In a troubling case involving an indoor cat, H5N1 was confirmed after the pet had consumed three different brands of commercially available raw pet food. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is currently testing samples from these raw foods as part of an ongoing investigation into their safety.

Tragically, the situation continues to evolve, with five additional feline fatalities reported from two households after consuming recalled raw milk. All of these cats succumbed to their H5N1 infections, prompting health officials to act swiftly.

Warning to Pet Owners

Given the alarming evidence establishing a link between contaminated raw food products and severe or fatal H5 infections in cats, the LACDPH has urgently advised veterinarians to recommend against feeding pets any raw food, raw meat, raw poultry, or raw milk. The risks associated with H5N1 are significant and can have dire consequences for our furry friends.

USDA Reports Increase in Infections

In a parallel announcement, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reported 11 more confirmed H5N1 cases in domestic cats, including five from Los Angeles County and additional cases from Santa Barbara County, Colorado, Minnesota, and South Dakota. All of these detections were sampled in December 2024, indicating a potential surge in infections.

As if this weren't enough to worry pet owners, the USDA also confirmed a detection of H5N1 in a mountain lion from Nebraska and an ermine from Alaska, underscoring the virus’s capacity to affect a range of mammals.

Stay Informed and Protect Your Pets!

With these alarming developments, it's crucial for pet owners to stay informed. Monitor your pets closely for any signs of illness, consult with your veterinarian regarding safe feeding practices, and be vigilant about any recalls related to pet food products. The health of your beloved pets may depend on your awareness and response to this growing crisis.