Bird Flu Outbreak in Pet Food Sickens Cats, Prompts FDA Investigation and Action

Bird Flu Outbreak Sickens Cats, Prompts FDA Investigation and Action

More than a dozen cats have fallen victim to bird flu, succumbing to the illness or suffering severe sickness. This alarming development has triggered an investigation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine how the virus infiltrated the pet food supply chain. Cases have been reported across several states, including California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington, raising concerns about the potential for wider spread.

The FDA is taking swift action, urging manufacturers of uncooked pet food to implement measures to curb the further spread of the virus. Additionally, the agency is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to enhance oversight of turkey slaughterhouses. This collaboration stems from the discovery of a bird flu strain in a turkey flock, which was linked to the infected cat cases.

Health officials in California and Oregon have issued warnings against feeding pets raw milk and raw turkey pet food, respectively. These warnings serve as a precautionary measure to protect animals from potential exposure to the virus.

The USDA anticipates that the current bird flu surge will subside within the next month as migrating birds settle into their winter habitats. This anticipated decline is attributed to a reduction in the amount of virus lingering in the environment from the birds' migration.

However, the ongoing outbreaks from a different bird flu strain that spilled over into dairy herds in 2023 remain a concern. This particular strain has, in some instances, spread back from cows to birds at nearby poultry farms. The strain found in the Northwest Naturals turkey product, B3.13, is the same as the one fueling the dairy outbreaks, highlighting the interconnectedness of the issue.

The FDA's investigation and the collaborative efforts with the USDA are crucial steps towards safeguarding the health of both animals and humans. By implementing stricter regulations and raising awareness, these agencies aim to prevent further outbreaks and protect the well-being of all involved.