06/07/2026
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
There is a current outbreak of bird flu (called H5N1 Bird Flu, sometimes referred to as H5 Bird Flu). A case of it has been reported in NSW. Aside from affecting birds of any species, it can affect mammals. Cats in particular seem to be susceptible to this virus and it can potentially be fatal. What is more scary, is that humans can also contract this virus. While the reported actual risk to people is very low, the risk is not 0%, unfortunately.
Because of this, the advice we have received from the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and the New South Wales Department of Primary Industries (NSW DPI), is that people should not handle sick or dead birds. If you see a sick bird, you should leave it where it is, and do not handle it. You should note the location of the bird and call the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
Because of this (also as advised by the AVA and the NSW DPI), until further notice, we cannot under any circumstance accept any birds into the clinic. Please do not bring and sick or injured birds to us. This is for our own safety.
Birds affected by the H5N1 Flu Virus may show any or all of these symptoms: Respiratory distress, neurological changes or lethargy.
If you own a pet bird or backyard poultry, you should bird-proof your cages/coop, and secure all food and water sources.
If your cat (or dog) that hunts birds, please try to keep them indoors to prevent them having any interaction with wild birds. Do not let your pets near dead or visibly sick birds.
Also, please do not feed raw poultry products to your pets (as the virus can spread through infected raw food).
As more information becomes available, we will keep you updated.
Please stay safe.
Pease share this with everyone you know.
