Dear Clients,
You may have seen reports of the avian influenza, commonly referred to as bird flu, affecting cats in certain regions of the U.S. Our team is closely monitoring the situation and would like to share our current understanding of the virus to keep you informed.
What We Know:
Bird flu has been detected in cats in various parts of the world, including the U.S. It’s believed that cats likely contracted the virus from wild birds, cows, raw milk, or contaminated food. Affected cats have shown a range of symptoms, including respiratory and neurological issues, and some cases have been fatal.
Common Symptoms Include:
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Reddened or inflamed eyes
- Discharge from the eyes and nose
- Difficulty breathing
- Neurological symptoms (tremors, seizures, incoordination)
How to Best Protect You and Your Cat:
- Keep Cats Indoors: Limit exposure to wild birds, poultry, cattle, and their environments.
- Avoid Raw Meat: Ensure meat is thoroughly cooked before feeding to your pet, and avoid offering raw meat-based treats or diets.
- Avoid Unpasteurized Dairy Products: Do not allow pets to drink unpasteurized milk or cream, as they may carry the virus from infected cows.
- Practice Proper Hygiene: While human infections remain rare, experts recommend practicing good hygiene when handling raw pet food and using protective measures when interacting with sick or deceased animals.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Keep an eye out for signs like fever, lethargy, or appetite loss. If you suspect your pet may be affected, please call ahead to inform us. This allows us to prepare the clinic with the necessary protocols, such as waiting in your car until a room is ready or following other precautionary measures to ensure everyone’s safety.
Your pet’s health is our top priority. If your cat is experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact us!
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