Cat Owners Beware: Bird Flu Found in Raw Pet Food

A second U.S. pet food company, Wild Coast Raw, has recalled its products after bird flu was found in cats that consumed raw food. Cases were reported in Oregon and Washington, with some cats becoming severely ill or needing euthanasia.

The voluntary recall applies to two lots of Wild Coast Raw’s food. However, officials are unsure if the latest cases are linked to the recalled products or additional contaminated batches.

Since 2022, nearly 100 domestic cats in the U.S. have tested positive for H5N1, a virus that can be deadly to felines and potentially transmissible to humans.

Christine Knopp, a Portland cat breeder, lost two of her pets after unknowingly feeding them tainted raw food. Initially cautious, she believed the food had been tested for H5N1. Now, she warns others: “It is not safe. Stop feeding raw poultry, chicken, or eggs to cats.”

Raw pet food has long been linked to harmful pathogens like salmonella and E. coli. With the bird flu outbreak worsening, veterinarians urge pet owners to switch to safer alternatives.

Authorities are investigating how infected poultry entered the pet food supply, but in the meantime, experts advise keeping pets indoors and avoiding raw animal products.

Knopp now channels her grief into awareness, hoping to prevent other pet owners from facing similar heartbreak.

For now, the safest choice for pet owners? Skip raw diets and keep a close eye on your furry friends.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/28/cats-bird-flu