Bird Flu Spurs Pet Food Recalls, Raising Alarm Among Pet Owners

A Washington-based pet food company has issued a recall for its products amid ongoing concerns over the bird flu outbreaks. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on March 1 that Wild Coast Raw, based in Olympia, Washington, is recalling its frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats.

The FDA warned that the product could potentially contain the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1. If consumed, animals may contract the virus, raising alarms for pet owners who rely on raw food diets for their furry friends. The recall affects 16 oz. and 24 oz. packages, with specific lot numbers listed on the FDA’s website.

This announcement follows a chilling report from the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA), which revealed that at least two indoor cats had tested positive for the HPAI strain. Tragically, one of the cats was euthanized due to the severity of its illness, while the other is receiving veterinary care.

Dr. Zac Turner, a WSDA field veterinarian, empathized with pet owners, stating, "This is a difficult situation — we love our pets, and it’s devastating when they fall ill. If your cat is showing symptoms, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible." Symptoms to watch for in pets include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and neurological signs like tremors or seizures, according to the FDA.

David J. Cennimo, MD, an infectious disease expert, highlighted the risks of feeding raw pet food. "Raw food made with contaminated chickens or birds has been linked to infections in cats. This is why such food must be recalled when it poses a danger," he explained. Cooked bird products, however, remain safe for both pets and humans.

The FDA has emphasized the importance of hygiene when handling raw pet food. Washing hands and sanitizing surfaces like countertops, bowls, and utensils can help prevent potential transmission. While no cases of humans catching bird flu from handling raw pet food have been reported, the FDA advises vigilance, as the virus could spread through contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth.

For people who handled contaminated products, the FDA recommends watching for symptoms such as eye irritation, cough, fever, or fatigue. If these signs appear, they should contact their healthcare provider and local health department.

Experts also urge pet owners to isolate sick animals and take precautions when caring for them. The WSDA strongly advises against feeding raw pet food or raw milk to pets, underscoring the risks associated with such practices.

Since 2022, over 80 domestic cats have been confirmed to have contracted bird flu, according to KFF Health News. The crisis serves as a stark reminder for pet owners to stay informed and vigilant during outbreaks. Wild Coast Raw has yet to provide a public comment regarding the recall.