Cat owners in Los Angeles County are on alert after cases of bird flu were discovered linked to a brand of pet food. This situation raises concerns about the safety of raw pet products.
A recent investigation revealed that Monarch brand raw pet food was contaminated with the H5 avian influenza virus. A cat that consumed these products tested positive, according to a statement from the public health department of Los Angeles County. Although the specific type of H5 virus has not been confirmed, H5N1 is suspected due to its current prevalence.
Monarch’s products are available at several farmers’ markets in California, and a list of locations is available on their website. The product range includes, among others, ground chicken, chicken feet and beef jerky. Health authorities have not yet identified a specific product as the source of contamination, and no recall measures have been announced by the company. Symptoms of H5 virus infection in cats can include loss of appetite, fatigue, liver and respiratory problems, and life-threatening neurological symptoms. Veterinarians are advised to use personal protective equipment when treating suspect animals, as the virus can be spread through bodily fluids.
This is not the first time cats in Los Angeles County have been infected with bird flu. In December, four fatal cases were confirmed in cats that ate products from Raw Farm, LLC, another raw pet food brand. These incidents led to a product recall and a thorough investigation to determine the extent of the contamination.
Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, stressed the importance of avoiding raw dairy and meat products to prevent the spread of illness, including bird flu. She also recommended limiting contact of domestic animals with wild or sick animals.
Meanwhile, the Oregon Department of Agriculture alerted pet owners after a Northwest Naturals brand product tested positive for H5N1. A voluntary recall was issued for a specific product, after a cat in Washington County died from the infection.
To date, there have been no reported cases of H5 virus transmission from cats to humans in Los Angeles County. Health authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide advice to protect the health of pets and their owners.
What is H5N1 avian flu?
H5N1 avian influenza is a highly viral strain pathogenic which primarily affects birds, but can also infect other species, including humans and cats. It is characterized by severe symptoms and mortality rate elevated in infected birds.
-The H5N1 virus is transmitted by direct contact with infected birds or their droppings. In humans, cases of infection are rare but can be serious, requiring immediate medical attention.
Prevention measures include avoiding high-risk areas, cooking poultry products properly, and practicing strict hygiene when handling birds or poultry products.
Monitoring and controlling avian influenza outbreaks is essential to prevent the spread of the virus and protect public and animal health.
Why is raw pet food risky?
Raw pet foods may contain bacteria and pathogenic viruses, including avian influenza, due to the lack of thermal treatment which would kill these pathogens.
Pets consuming these raw products are at increased risk of infections, which can then be transmitted to other animals or, in rare cases, to humans.
Pet owners are encouraged to opt for heat-treated foods or ensure raw products are from safe sources and handled with care.
If a pet experiences symptoms of infection after consuming raw food, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
