H5N1 bird flu affects pets and poultry in U.S

H5N1 bird flu is a serious threat to pets, especially domestic cats, and has caused a significant egg shortage in the U.S. The virus has affected poultry farms in every state, leading to the loss of more than 166 million chickens. It is also impacting cattle, with nearly 1,000 dairy herds infected. While the number of reported cases of H5N1 in pets is low, rising cases in cats are concerning. As of March 12, there were 115 cases reported across 20 states. Many cases likely go unreported, as pet owners may not test sick animals due to high costs. Testing can range from $200 to $300, making it unaffordable for some. Cats that go outside face a higher risk of infection, especially if they encounter sick birds. Additionally, cats have become infected from eating raw food or unpasteurized milk. Recent cases in Oregon involved two cats that died after consuming raw food from a specific company. To protect your cats, experts advise keeping them indoors and away from wildlife. It’s also recommended to avoid feeding cats raw or undercooked meat, raw milk, or raw pet food diets. Taking these precautions can help minimize the risk of bird flu for your pets.