Washington Cats Confirmed with HPAI as Investigation into Contaminated Pet Food Continues

OLYMPIA, Wash. — The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) is alerting pet owners that at least two domestic indoor cats in King and Snohomish counties in Washington have become infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu or H5N1, with more cats being tested.

Pet owners reported feeding their cats potentially contaminated Wild Coast Raw pet food (previously identified in a prior public health alert). One of the cats was euthanized due to the severity of the illness. The second cat is being treated by a veterinarian.  

The Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL) reported the presumptive positive results of both cats with HPAI on Feb. 24. WSDA received confirmatory results from the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) on Feb. 25.  

The contaminated pet food has been linked to severe illness in cats in Oregon in addition to the reports in Washington. For more information and specific lot numbers, visit the Washington State Department of Agriculture recalls and health alerts webpage.

Common clinical signs of HPAI in felines include lethargy, low appetite, fever, hypothermia, progression of illness to pneumonia, progression of illness to neurologic abnormalities and upper respiratory infection. If your pet has consumed this product and has any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Inform the veterinary clinic before arriving so the veterinary team can prepare to handle the cat in a manner that reduces risk of transmission to veterinary staff, other clients and other animals.

To date, there have been no documented human cases of HPAI following exposure to an infected cat or contaminated raw pet food products, said WSDA. The currently circulating strain of HPAI is considered low risk to the public, but there is greater risk for those who handle contaminated raw pet food products or who care for infected animals.

People can become infected if the virus enters their eyes, nose, or mouth — such as by handling contaminated pet food or touching contaminated surfaces, especially without thoroughly washing their hands afterward.

Sick animals could be isolated to prevent the possible spread to other animals and people in the home. Caretakers should wear a well-fitting face mask and practice good hand hygiene when caring for infected animals.

Public health monitors all people exposed to animals infected with HPAI through 10 days following their last exposure.

“This is a difficult situation; we love our pets, and it’s devastating when they fall ill,” WSDA field veterinarian Dr. Zac Turner said. “If your cat is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible.”

The WSDA said it is continuing to investigate and monitor the situation and urges veterinarians and pet owners to report any additional illnesses potentially linked to the contaminated product. WSDA does not recommend feeding raw pet food or raw milk to animals.