LA County warns bird flu is killing cats as human cases top 65 nationwide

[marmar]

(Salon) The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a warning about bird flu, caused by the virus H5N1, that is killing domestic cats. On Dec. 20, the agency reported that five, indoor-only cats died after consuming raw milk that was part of a recall. The agency is also investigating a separate case, also in LA County, concerning a cat that has "tested presumptive positive for H5 bird flu after consuming two different brands of raw pet food composed of raw poultry and raw beef."

“The risk of H5 bird flu remains low in Los Angeles County, but these confirmed cases of the virus in pet cats are a reminder that consuming raw dairy and meat products can lead to severe illness in cats," said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health in a press release. “To avoid the spread of disease, including H5 bird flu, we strongly encourage residents and their pets to avoid raw dairy and undercooked meat products, limit contact with sick or dead animals, report sick or dead birds and keep pets or poultry away from wild animals and birds.”

According to the Los Angeles Times, the cats’ symptoms appeared between 8 to 12 days after consuming the raw milk. They had signs of liver damage and yellowing of the eyes and gums. .................(more)

https://www.salon.com/2024/12/24/la-county-warns-bird-flu-is-cats-as-human-cases-top-65-nationwide/?in_brief=true