With highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza (bird flu) now in New Zealand, pet parents are advised to keep a closer eye on their pets.
PD Insurance COO Michelle Le Long said that although the likelihood of pets being affected is low, it’s still a possibility worth considering.
“As with any health issue, catching it early gives you the best chance of a good outcome.”
What is bird flu?
Also known as avian influenza, bird flu is a viral disease caused by influenza A viruses that primarily infect wild birds and domestic poultry, such as chickens and ducks.
‘Bird flu’ often specifically refers to the highly pathogenic (disease-causing) avian influenza H5N1 strain, which has been behind major global outbreaks in recent years.
The disease spreads easily through direct contact, droppings, respiratory secretions, or contaminated surfaces, feed, or water. While it is primarily a disease of birds, a wide variety of mammals (including cats) can potentially be infected after contact with infected birds.
The risk for pets: Cats more susceptible
PD Insurance has highlighted that bird flu in cats can be serious and is often deadly.
Dr Hayley Hunt, Chair of Healthy Pets New Zealand (HPNZ), PD Insurance’s veterinary partner, explained that cats can be at risk of contracting H5N1 because their natural behaviour puts them in more frequent contact with sick or dead wild birds.
“There are a few ways they can pick up the infection, such as hunting or eating a bird carrying the virus,” she said.
“Overseas, in countries where H5N1 has become widespread, cats have also been infected through contaminated raw or unpasteurised pet food or dairy products.”
Hunt added that precautions included keeping cats indoors, since limiting their roaming removes the chance to hunt or scavenge sick or dead wild birds.
“And, as you’re almost certainly already doing, keep your pets (and yourselves) well away from wildlife, especially sick or dead wild birds.”
Suspect bird flu?
Signs of H5N1 in birds include sudden death, breathing difficulty, weakness and trembling, and blindness. Cats can show similar neurological signs, along with the signs often seen with other viral respiratory diseases, including fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and eye or nasal discharge.
Le Long added that while New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) said chicken meat and eggs remain safe when properly prepared, the agency has urged people to protect vulnerable pets and wildlife by keeping them away from sick or dead birds and avoiding potential exposure to infected animals.
“Keeping a close eye on your pets is always sound advice, but with bird flu now present in the country, being extra vigilant is a smart move.”
If you are worried about your pet and they are showing these signs, seek prompt veterinary care, and let your vet know if they have had recent exposure to wild birds.
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