by Xun Zhu
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, a new novel strain of bird flu called N5H1 has been wreaking havoc on farms and families worldwide, and experts even say it may lead to human to human spread, leading to a pandemic. Pets, especially cats, are very susceptible to this virus.
This novel strain also has an upper hand in infecting a large variety of mammals when compared to previous strains, as dairy cows and some pigs across the nation have been found to be infected. Especially in California, where the recent discovery of N5H1 in Southern California herds pushed Governor Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency.
In Oregon, a house cat was found dead after consuming raw pet food contaminated with the virus. In Los Angeles, unpasteurized milk was implicated in the deaths of multiple cats. And in Canada, a dog died from the infection after it was seen munching on a dead goose.
While this virus is a type of influenza, which typically manifests in the respiratory system and causes breathing problems, it has also been observed to be neurological, almost seeming to mimic rabies. Pets may act strangely or circle around.
Kristen Coleman, an influenza researcher at the University of Maryland writing for NPR, states to practice more supervision for pets outside, especially if the owner lives near or has poultry. She also states to keep them away from wild birds, dead or alive. Dr Micheal Q. Bailey, writing for AP News, says again to keep pets away from birds, but also to switch from raw pet foods to high quality canned and thoroughly cooked foods. She also states that symptoms in cats may include loss of appetite, lethargy, or inflamed and red eyes.
If you notice any of these symptoms, please keep the feline away from anyone with a weak immune system and contact the veterinary clinic right away.