Avian Influenza in Cats

What is avian influenza?

Avian influenza, H5N1, also known as bird flu, can be a serious and fatal condition for cats. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential. Since about the beginning of 2024, dozens of cats have been diagnosed with avian flu. These include barn and feral cats, indoor cats, and big cats such as mountain lions, tigers, leopards, and bobcats in zoos and in the wild.
In Pennsylvania, cats have been diagnosed with avian influenza in at least 4 counties.

How does a feline get avian influenza?

Infection is thought to be largely related to exposure to unpasteurized milk and raw milk (in dairy farm settings) and eating raw or undercooked meat in the wild or in raw or freeze-dried raw diets.
A multi-state outbreak of bird flu in dairy cows was first reported in March of 2024. Subsequently, the virus was found in a number of cats, particularly those with access to raw milk on dairy farms.
Bird flu is extremely rare in dogs. Raccoons, skunks, foxes, and bears have tested positive for H5N1.

What are the symptoms of avian influenza?

Symptoms of bird flu in cats:

• Respiratory problems: Coughing, sneezing, runny nose, difficulty breathing

• Eye problems: Redness, discharge, inflammation

• Neurological problems: Lethargy, weakness, incoordination, seizures

• Gastrointestinal problems: Loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea

• Fever

• Sudden death

What do I do if I think my cat could have avian influenza?

If your cat is showing symptoms and has had any outside access, including free range, in a fenced yard, walking on leash or in a catio, call us immediately at 814-238-5100. Share with our Customer Service Representatives any symptoms and possible exposure your cat may have had.

How do you test for avian influenza?

We administer a PCR test to any cat suspected of having avian influenza. A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test for cats occurs when we collect a sample of blood, tissue, or swab from the cat's mouth, nose, or eyes. Then we send the samples to a laboratory for analysis.
A diagnosis from the lab may take 3-7 days to return. During the period between testing and hearing back from the lab, it is critical that the owner of an affected cat keep the cat isolated from other animals and use strict disinfectant protocols in the home (see Disinfection below for specifics.)

What is the treatment for avian influenza?

There is no cure for bird flu in cats. Treatment focuses on supporting the cat's health and comfort while their body fights the infection. Specific supportive care may include IV fluids, oxygen therapy, antibiotics, and nutritional support.

How do I keep my other cats from getting avian influenza?

• Isolation: Cats with suspected bird flu should be kept away from other animals and people.

• Disinfection: Any surfaces that the cat has touched should be thoroughly disinfected.

  • DO NOT use:

    • Lysol or Pinesol! Both these products have phenol in them that is toxic to cats.Even when it is dry, it may stick to cat paws, and if a cat then licks its paws, it will ingest the poisonous substance.

    • Clorox and bleach products also are toxic to pets. and should never be used where pets may walk or may inhale the fumes.

• DO use:

  • Distilled white vinegar disinfects surfaces.

  • 3% hydrogen peroxide will kill mold, fungi, and bacteria.

  • Pet-Safe Laundry Detergents can be found. Check for ones that are formulated with natural, plant-based ingredients that are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that could be harmful to pets

  • Check out our Pet-Safe Disinfecting page for a great DIY recipe that won’t harm your cats.

Can people get avian influenza from cats?

It is not likely that a human would become infected with bird flu viruses from an infected cat, but it is possible. Human infections have occurred in people who work closely with birds, especially poultry flocks.
Sick animals may be able to transmit the virus that causes avian influenza to people in their saliva, feces, or other body fluids. Human infections can occur when the virus is inhaled or gets into a person's eyes, nose, or mouth. This can happen when the virus is airborne, and a person breathes it in, or when a person touches something that has virus on it and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.
For these reasons, we recommend you wear a mask and gloves and wash your hands thoroughly after caring for a cat with a possible bird flu diagnosis. If you have other questions about your safety, call us at 814-238-5100.

Can people get avian influenza from other people?

At this time, there are no known instances of human-to-human transmission of bird flu. However, this is a rapidly developing situation and our understanding of H5N1 avian influenza is constantly evolving.
We will continue to post updates on our Latest News page and on this page as we receive new information.
For more information: visit the following websites:
American Veterinary Medical Association
https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-h5n1-cats
American Medical Association
https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/bird-flu-h5n1-resource-center
Food and Drug Administration
https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/fda-outlines-ways-reduce-risk-hpai-cats
World Organization for Animal Health
https://www.woah.org/app/uploads/2023/07/qa-avian-influenza-in-cats.pdf