When we last posted about H5 avian influenza, Australia was still free of the highly contagious H5 strain of bird flu. That has now changed.
H5 bird flu has been detected in wild birds in several states, including South Australia. There is evidence of local transmission among wild birds and it has also been detected in some wild mammals.
Can my cat catch H5 bird flu?
Yes. Cats can become infected with H5 bird flu, although infections in cats and dogs have been uncommon overseas.
Cats are at greater risk if they hunt, scavenge or come into contact with infected birds or other wildlife. Overseas infections have also been associated with eating raw pet food or drinking unpasteurised milk.
For most Australian pet cats—particularly cats kept indoors and away from wildlife—the risk remains low.
What signs should I look for?
Signs of H5 bird flu in cats can include:
- fever
- unusual tiredness or loss of appetite
- red or inflamed eyes, or discharge from the eyes or nose
- coughing or sneezing
- difficulty breathing
- neurological problems such as tremors, seizures, poor coordination or blindness.
If your cat has been in contact with a sick or dead bird, bird droppings, feathers or a potentially contaminated environment, monitor it for signs of illness for seven days.
If your cat becomes unwell, phone your veterinarian before taking your cat to the clinic and tell them about the possible exposure. This allows the clinic to take appropriate precautions.
Can I catch bird flu from my cat?
The current risk of H5 bird flu to people in Australia is considered low. Humans generally require close contact with infected animals or contaminated environments. Still, the sensible approach is to avoid direct contact with animals suspected of having H5 bird flu and seek professional advice.
How can I protect my cat?
Prevent contact with wild birds and other wildlife. Keep cats indoors or in a secure outdoor enclosure and don’t allow them to hunt or scavenge. Keep their food and water indoors where wild birds cannot access it.
Don’t allow your cat to investigate sick or dead birds, feathers or carcasses. If you have been in direct contact with sick or dead birds yourself, shower and change your clothes before handling your cat.
A good source of general Bird Flu information is the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website.
We will continue to follow developments and update cat owners as the situation changes.