Avian influenza outbreak: How will it affect cats, dogs, and other pets?

Bird flu is currently spreading throughout North America and Europe, raising concerns among pet owners as millions of poultry, including chickens, ducks, geese, and turkeys, have been culled globally to control the virus.

Avian influenza spreads easily among domestic birds, and while the threat to humans remains low, some pets may face higher risks. Budgerigars and similar small birds kept indoors are generally safe, but any mammal could theoretically become infected.

Outdoor cats are particularly vulnerable since they may encounter infected birds or droppings, especially near farms experiencing outbreaks. Infected cats might show heavy discharge from eyes and nose, neurological issues like tremors, seizures, or coordination problems, as well as respiratory symptoms such as coughing or labored breathing. General illness signs include fever, reduced appetite, and lethargy.

To minimize risk, owners should prevent cats from roaming in areas with reported infections. Shoes potentially contaminated with bird droppings should be kept out of pets reach and disinfected thoroughly.

Health organizations maintain updated outbreak maps. In the United States, the CDC provides an interactive map, while the UKs APHA and Europes FLI offer similar resources to track avian influenza cases.

Dogs have not shown typical symptoms of bird flu, but any unusual behavior or health changes should prompt a veterinary consultation. Experts recommend keeping dogs on a lead in outbreak-prone countryside areas and avoiding contact with dead birds. Any found carcasses should be reported to local authorities.

Overall, while bird flu poses minimal human risk, careful measures can help protect cats, dogs, and other pets from exposure during ongoing outbreaks.

Author: Noah Whitman