03/08/2026
BIRD FLU AND CATS
The spread of H5N1 is a serious concern for our feline friends.
We now have at least one positive case of Bird flu in our region , the situation is evolving rapidly and we must be prepared for the eventual likelihood of mass mortalities.
RISK FACTORS FOR CATS
Cats who have access outdoors can get infected via direct contact with infected birds or their secretions, ingesting infected animals or remains, eating raw poultry products, or potentially through contaminated human clothing, shoes or surfaces.
Other risk factors include:
access to outdoor bodies of water used by wild birds and
exposure to infected poultry
Indoor-only cats without these risk factors are unlikely to be infected with H5N1 unless their owner has contact with infected animals.
SIGNS OF INFECTION
For cats developing clinical signs of H5N1, the prognosis is grave, and there are no known specific treatment options. Bird flu can be fatal for cats. 😿
Signs of suspected H5N1
* Lethargy, fever, loss of appetite
* Rapid illness progression
* Acute respiratory signs (e.g., nasal discharge, discharge from the eyes, sneezing, shortness of breath)
* Acute, progressive neurologic signs (e.g., blindness, disorientation, ataxia, tremors, circling, seizures, paralysis)
HOW TO KEEP YOUR CAT SAFE:
✅ Keep them indoors with no contact with wild birds or poultry
✅ Avoid feeding raw poultry or wild-caught prey
✅ Maintain good hygiene & disinfect cat areas regularly
✅ Watch for the symptoms outlined above
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?
If your cat shows any signs of illness, call your vet immediately.
DO NOT BRING your cat into our clinic without prior telephone discussion with Dr Carl.
If bird flu is suspected we may need to refer you to another practice with appropriate biosecurity facilities where your cat can be isolated and cared for.
PLEASE SHARE this post.
Please put this important number in your phone:
24-hour national Emergency Animal Disease Hotline 1800 675 888
Thank you. 🐾
