Can dogs & cats get the bird flu? Yes, and here’s how to keep them safe in GA
The bird flu has hit Georgia and the Department of Agriculture’s records listed two confirmed cases at an Elbert County commercial poultry farm.
With growing concerns of the avian influenza spreading to other farms and backyard flocks, there’s also a concern of the illness spreading to other animals like our pets. Here’s what to know:
Can cats and dogs get the avian flu?
Short answer: yes, your pets can get infected with avian flu. Although the illness is mostly contracted among aquatic birds like geese, wild ducks and domestic poultry (turkeys and chickens), your pets can get the bird flu, too. Here’s what the CDC says:
“If your domestic animals (e.g., cats or dogs) go outside and could potentially eat or be exposed to sick or dead birds infected with bird flu viruses, or an environment contaminated with bird flu virus, they could become infected with bird flu.”
So, how would you know if your cats or dogs have the bird flu? According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), here are some symptoms to look out for:
Fever
Lethargy
Low appetite
Reddened or inflamed eyes
Discharge from the eyes and nose
Difficulty breathing
Neurologic signs, like tremors, seizures, incoordination or blindness
“Immediately contact your veterinarian if you notice any of these signs. Animals with severe illness may die,” said the AVMA.
The AVMA also said to be especially cautious if you suspect your pet was in contact with or ate a dead bird or drank unpasteurized cow’s milk and to let your veterinarian know as soon as possible if this has happened.
How can I keep my cat or dog from getting sick with bird flu?
The AVMA shared the following tips to keep your pets safe from getting sick:
Keep pets that do go outdoors away from wild birds, poultry, cattle, and their environments.
Prevent pets from eating dead birds or other animals.
Avoid feeding pets raw meat or poultry and unpasteurized milk.
Keep feed, drinking water, equipment and other supplies secure and out of reach of wild birds or rodents.
Know the signs of HPAI, and immediately report any suspected infections to your veterinarian or state animal health official.
Call your veterinarian first, before bringing your bird(s) in to be seen.
In addition, the American Kennel Club said to keep updated on all of your pet’s vaccinations, as this will help cut down on the spread of other viruses with similar symptoms.
What other questions do you have about the bird flu and pets? Comment below to let me know or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com.
This story was originally published January 24, 2025 at 12:17 PM.
