30/07/2026
⚠️ With cases of H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) now detected on the Queensland coast, this is a good time to think about how to keep your pets safe. ⚠️
H5N1 avian influenza can infect cats and often causes severe, potentially fatal illness, with reported mortality rates of 50–70%. Cats are most commonly exposed by eating infected birds, consuming raw meat or unpasteurised milk, or through close contact with sick wildlife.
One of the simplest ways to reduce your cat's risk is to keep them contained in your house or in a secure outdoor cat enclosure. Not only does this help protect them from infectious diseases like bird flu, but it also protects our native wildlife. Studies by the Invasive Species Council estimate that each roaming pet cat in Australia kills an average of 186 animals yearly, including 110 native birds, reptiles, and mammals:https://invasives.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Pet-cat-impacts-June-2023.pdf
If you're considering transitioning your cat to an indoor lifestyle but aren't sure where to start, check out this article by RSPCA Australia for guidance: https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/general/how-do-i-adjust-a-roaming-cat-to-a-stay-at-home-life
Cats can be happy staying at home if they have an environment that safeguards their physical and mental health and provides them with the opportunity for positive experiences and good welfare.
