High-Path Avian Flu is keeping a lot of veterinarians busy. Oregon’s top animal expert says they are getting more reports of household pets, like cats, coming down with the virus, especially if they spend time outdoors.
A cat in Oregon recently had to be put down after contracting the virus. Officials say it was in contact with wild birds, which authorities believe has been a major spreader of the virus. They remind everyone not to feed wild animals, and be mindful when allowing pets to roam the outdoors.
“There absolutely is a risk to cats who have uncontrolled access to waterfowl, especially wild waterfowl that could be infected by this virus. In this case, they were full-time outdoor cats living right next to a wildlife refuge,” said Dr. Ryan Scholz.
Full-grown cats and dogs have a stronger immune system, but Scholz still urges everyone to keep pets away from wild birds and raw meat.
