Bird Flu and Your Pets: What You Need to Know

The recent news about bird flu affecting dairy herds and causing some human infections has understandably raised concerns. While experts emphasize that the risk to the general public remains low, it's essential to stay informed, especially when it comes to protecting our pets and managing backyard poultry. This blog post summarizes key information and provides actionable advice for pet owners and backyard flock keepers.

The current situation with bird flu

Bird flu has been around for over a century. It is technically called avian influenza and was first reported in 1878 in Italy. The recent strain of avian influenza is an H5N1 virus. It is highly pathogenic in birds, but it hasn't adapted well to infecting humans. Most human cases are linked to close contact with infected poultry, wild birds, or dairy cattle. The virus primarily targets receptors deep in the lungs and around the eyes, explaining why some human cases have presented as conjunctivitis. It usually results in mild disease in humans. The disease can't pass between humans, and most cases have been tied to animal exposure.

 A key concern is that as the virus infects more mammals, including humans, it increases the opportunity for mutations that could make it more easily transmissible to humans. Such concerning mutations haven't been detected yet. However, the virus has been found in a wider range of mammals than previous strains, indicating a need for continued vigilance.

What does this mean for your dogs and cats?

While the risk to pets is considered low, there have been documented cases of cats and dogs contracting H5N1, sometimes with severe consequences. Here's what you need to know:

• Cats are more susceptible: This current strain appears to be more deadly in cats than previous strains. They can become infected by consuming raw contaminated animal products or by preying on wild birds. Several cat deaths have been linked to contaminated raw pet food and raw milk. An outbreak that wiped out 20 cats at a wildlife sanctuary in Washington state was also likely due to contaminated meat.
• Dogs can also be infected: There have been cases of dogs becoming infected after consuming dead infected birds.
• Symptoms in pets: While pets can develop respiratory symptoms, the infection can also manifest as a neurological illness with signs similar to rabies. If your pet shows unusual behavior like circling or acting disoriented, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• Limited evidence of pet-to-human transmission: There have been very few documented cases of cats transmitting avian flu to humans, and none during the current outbreak.

 How to protect your dogs and cats

• Supervise your cats outdoors: Limit their access to wild birds, rodents, and other potential sources of infection, especially near your poultry.
• Avoid raw pet food: Do not feed your pets raw meat, especially poultry. Ensure pet food is sourced from reputable manufacturers with strict safety protocols. This is particularly important given the recent recalls.
• Prevent contact with wild birds: Keep your pets away from dead or sick wild birds. If you find a dead bird on your property, use gloves and a shovel to dispose of it properly and disinfect the area.
• Be cautious at agricultural settings: Exercise caution at petting zoos, agricultural fairs, and other places where your pets might contact poultry or other animals.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands thoroughly after handling pets, especially after they have been outdoors.
• Monitor for symptoms: Be vigilant for any signs of illness in your pets, especially respiratory or neurological symptoms. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice anything unusual.

 Protecting your backyard flock from bird flu

If you own a backyard flock of poultry, you have a greater responsibility to protect your birds and prevent the spread of avian influenza. Here's what you should do:

• Prevent contact with wild birds: This is the most critical step.
• Secure housing: Ensure your coop and run are secure and prevent wild birds from entering. Use netting or other barriers to cover any openings.
• Eliminate access to wild bird food and water: Remove any wild bird feeders or water sources near your poultry area.
• Confine your flock: Keep your birds confined to their designated area and avoid free-ranging, especially during migratory bird seasons.
• Practice strict biosecurity:
• Cleanliness: Regularly clean and disinfect your coop, feeders, waterers, and other equipment.
• Footwear: Use dedicated footwear for entering your poultry area and avoid wearing those shoes elsewhere. Consider using footbaths with disinfectant to dip your shoes in when leaving the area.
• Handwashing: Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling your birds or entering their area.
• Visitor restrictions: Limit visitors to your poultry area and ensure they follow your biosecurity protocols.
• Monitor your flock for signs of illness: Watch your birds for any signs of illness, including:
• Sudden death
• Respiratory distress (coughing, sneezing, nasal discharge)
• Decreased egg production
• Swelling around the head and neck
• Neurological signs (tremors, incoordination)
• Report sick or dead birds: If you suspect avian influenza in your flock, contact your local veterinarian, state animal health officials, or the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services immediately. Early detection is crucial for controlling outbreaks.
• Consider wearing protective gear: When working closely with your birds, especially if you suspect illness in your area, consider wearing an N95 mask, gloves, and protective clothing.
• Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on the latest information about avian influenza outbreaks in your area from official sources.

Key Takeaways

While the risk of avian influenza to both humans and pets remains low for the general public, awareness and preventative measures are essential. Backyard flock owners play a critical role in preventing the spread of this virus. By taking the precautions outlined above, you can significantly reduce the risk of your birds and pets contracting this virus. Stay informed about updates from reputable sources like the CDC, USDA APHIS, and your local health authorities.

At Blue Toby, we want to make sure you have knowledge about issues affecting your pets, but this should not be considered as veterinary advice. Always consult with your veterinarian or state animal health officials for any health concerns regarding your pets or poultry.

Other resources:

NPR, 12/30/24

Bird flu Q&A: What to know to help protect yourself and your pets

 Forbes, 12/28/24

Which Animals Have Caught Bird Flu In The U.S.?

 CDC, 12/30/24

Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)