Introduction

PORTLAND, ORE. — A shocking revelation has sent ripples of concern through pet owners after Morasch Meats announced a voluntary recall of its Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey raw and frozen pet food formula. This decision came on December 24 following the tragic death of a cat from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). In a testing breakthrough, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) confirmed that a sample of the affected cat food tested positive for the dangerous H5N1 strain of HPAI.

Investigation and Findings

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL), along with the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (ODVL) at Oregon State University, confirmed the devastating findings: a house cat in Washington County died after ingesting this contaminated pet food. Disturbingly, genetic sequencing confirmed the H5N1 virus found in the food precisely matched the virus that infected the cat.

Official Statements

Dr. Ryan Scholz, the state veterinarian with the ODA, stated, “We are confident that this cat contracted H5N1 by eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food. This cat was strictly an indoor cat; it was not exposed to the virus in its environment.” This revelation has raised alarms as pet owners grapple with the potential risks associated with raw pet food diets.

Details of the Recall

The recall specifically pertains to the Northwest Naturals’ 2-lb Feline Turkey Recipe raw and frozen product. Consumers are urged to check for packages bearing “Best if used by” dates of May 21, 2026 (B10) and June 23, 2026 (B1). This cat food was sold across various states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, as well as in British Columbia, Canada.

Health Monitoring and Risk Assessment

In light of these developments, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and public health officials are actively monitoring the household that had contact with the deceased cat for any symptoms related to the virus. Thankfully, there have been no human cases of HPAI linked to this incident thus far, and the OHA reports that the risk of transmission to humans remains low in Oregon.

Conclusion and Advice

This incident is particularly alarming as it follows the report of Oregon’s first confirmed human case of HPAI back in November—although it was unrelated to this particular recall. While Oregon has not reported any cases concerning dairy cows or contaminated cow milk, the ODA is remaining vigilant, carrying out tests on milk from every commercial dairy in the state as neighboring areas continue to document cases.

Pet Owners Beware

If you have purchased the recalled cat food, it is imperative to cease its use immediately and consult your veterinarian if your pet shows any unusual symptoms. Stay informed and protect your furry companions from this threatening avian virus!