What is the H5N1 Avian Flu?

Avian influenza A viruses occur naturally in waterfowl, and a subtype called H5N1 has recently evolved to infect a variety of other birds and mammals. Infection is most commonly transmitted by direct contact of the nasal secretions, saliva, and feces of infected individuals with the eyes, nose, or mouth of susceptible individuals. Infection via inhalation of airborne viruses may also occur but is believed to be a less common means of transmission.

Can cats catch It?

Cats are susceptible to H5N1 infection.

Are H5N1 infections in cats serious?

H5N1 can cause serious, even life-threatening illness in cats. Up to 70% of infected cats die of their infections.

What are the symptoms of H5N1 in cats?

Infected cats often develop a fever, loss of appetite, and lethargy early in their infections; and signs can worsen rapidly to include nasal/ocular discharge, sneezing, coughing, respiratory difficulty, and neurologic signs such as incoordination, tremors, seizures, and blindness.

Where do cats get H5N1 infections from?

Suspected or verified sources of feline infections include ingesting raw (unpasteurized) cow’s milk, raw meat/poultry products, exposure to infected livestock/poultry and their environments, exposure to wild birds, and exposure to infected people and their clothing.

Can an infected cat pass an H5N1 infection to a person?

While this is theoretically possible, we are not aware of any cases of cat-to-human transmission of H5N1 during the current outbreak. Out of an abundance of caution, though, any cat showing signs of H5N1 infection should not be allowed to lick anyone’s face or interact closely with people until veterinary consultation has been carried out.

Can an infected cat pass an H5N1 infection to another cat?

While this is theoretically possible, we are not aware of any cases of cat-to-cat transmission of H5N1 during the current outbreak. Out of an abundance of caution, though, any cat showing signs of H5N1 infection should be isolated from other cats until veterinary consultation has been carried out.

How can I protect my cat from H5N1 infection?

Refrain from feeding raw (even freeze-dried raw) meat-based foods and treats and unpasteurized dairy products. Keep him/her indoors and away from livestock, poultry, and their environments, and from sick or dead birds. Thoroughly wash your hands and change clothing (including footwear) after interacting with any livestock, poultry, wild bird, other animals, or bird feeders. Isolate any cats or people showing signs of infection from other cats/animals. Unfortunately, there is currently no vaccine available for H5N1.

What should I do if I observe signs of H5N1 infection in my cat?

Isolate the cat from other pets and people, thoroughly wash your hands before and after interacting with the cat and call your veterinarian immediately. Importantly, do not bring your cat to a veterinarian before contacting them so that they can take appropriate precautions to protect your cat, other patients, and the whole veterinary team.

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