Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as “bird flu,” is circulating in the 
United States and much of the world. This strain of influenza virus has spread from wild birds into poultry, dairy cattle, domestic cats, and many species of wildlife throughout the United States. Although relatively rare, it has also caused illness in people.
Importantly, cats are susceptible to infection and can experience serious, even life-threatening, illness if they become infected. Up to 70% of cats infected with HPAI will succumb to their disease.
It is important to understand how to recognize signs of HPAI infection, how we can reduce the risk of exposure to ourselves and our pets, and what to do if we suspect that either we or our pets may be infected with HPAI.
To help address this issue, Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine has set up a resource to offer educated, scientifically accurate, up-to-date information on the current HPAI outbreak. This portal includes useful links to learn how HPAI affects different animal species (including, of course, cats), how to minimize the likelihood of infection, and what to do in cases of suspected or confirmed HPAI infections. Both general information and resources for veterinarians and public health professionals are included. You can visit this vital resource at: https://www.vet.cornell.edu/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-bird-flu-resource-center
The risk of infection is higher for farm cats, outdoor cats, cats who drink raw milk or eat a raw food diet, and cats having household members who are at risk of exposure to HPAI. Commercially available cooked foods (dry and wet) produced by reputable pet companies are considered to be safe at this time, but owners should refrain from feeding any raw foods, whether home prepared or proprietary, even if they are freeze-dried.
According to the FDA: “Scientific information is evolving, but at this time it is known that H5N1 can be transmitted to cats and dogs when they eat products from infected poultry or cattle (e.g., unpasteurized milk, uncooked meat, or unpasteurized eggs) that have not undergone a processing step that is capable of inactivating the virus, such as pasteurizing, cooking, or canning.”
