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In a concerning incident in Oregon, two cats were euthanized after consuming raw pet food tainted with the bird flu virus. This unfortunate event has prompted health officials to issue a public alert, urging pet owners to be cautious about the food they provide to their animals.
What Happened?
The two cats, each from separate households in Multnomah County, Oregon, became severely ill after eating raw pet food produced by Wild Coast LLC, based in Olympia, Washington. After seeking advice from veterinarians, the owners made the heartbreaking decision to euthanize their pets due to the severity of their illnesses.
Officials quickly investigated the cases, collecting samples from the sick cats and the remaining food. Lab tests confirmed that both the cats and the raw pet food contained traces of the H5N1 bird flu virus. Even unopened containers of the same food were found to be contaminated.
The Source of the Contamination
The source of the contaminated pet food was identified as Wild Coast’s Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula, specifically lots #22660 and #22664, with best-by dates in December. The raw food was distributed to pet owners in Oregon and Washington state, and the investigation confirmed that it was the common factor in the illnesses of the two cats.
How Bird Flu Affects Pets
Since the start of the year, at least 24 domestic cats have been diagnosed with H5N1, with many cases linked to the consumption of raw pet food or milk contaminated with the virus. Pets infected with bird flu may show a range of symptoms, including:
- Fever and lethargy
- Lack of appetite
- Red or inflamed eyes
- Discharge from the eyes or nose
- Difficulty breathing
- Neurological issues like tremors, seizures, and even blindness
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, especially if they’ve eaten raw food or had access to outdoor birds, it’s important to contact a veterinarian immediately.
How to Protect Your Pet
While no human cases of bird flu have been linked to handling raw pet food, the virus can still pose a risk to people if it enters the eyes, nose, or mouth. To protect both your pets and yourself, always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food, and ensure your pet is not consuming contaminated food products.
If you suspect your pet may have eaten tainted food or has been in contact with infected wildlife, get them checked by a vet as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment can be crucial in preventing the spread of the virus.
Final Thoughts
This incident serves as an important reminder for pet owners to stay informed about food safety and potential risks. Always be cautious when purchasing raw pet food, and stay up-to-date on any recalls or health advisories. Protecting your pets from harmful infections like bird flu is essential to ensuring they stay happy and healthy.
Stay safe and keep your furry friends protected!
Credits: US NEWS
