Yes, humans can potentially get bird flu (avian influenza) from their cats, but the risk is extremely low. Cats can become infected by consuming infected birds or through close contact with contaminated environments. In rare cases, they may spread the virus to humans through respiratory droplets or direct contact.
However, transmission from cats to humans has not been widely documented, and standard hygiene practices, e.g., washing hands after handling pets and avoiding sick animals, can help minimize any potential risk.
Who Is at the Greatest Risk from the Avian Influenza?
According to Veterinary Practice News, since 2022, there has been an “ongoing wild bird epizootic of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)” in the U.S. Every state has reported HPAI cases. Outbreaks of bird flu are increasingly found in dairy cows in North America. As of 2024, there are 67 confirmed cases of HPAI in humans in the U.S., with one death.
Certain people are at greater risk of contracting bird flu than others. By the nature of their work, veterinarians are at high risk.
Other occupations at risk include the following:
- Animal shelter workers and volunteers
- Animal control officers
- Backyard flock owners
- Farm workers
- Slaughterhouse workers
- Wildlife rehabilitators
- Zookeepers
Keeping Your Cat Safe from Bird Flu
The CDC recommends protecting your cat from wild birds to prevent avian flu contagion. If your cat is an indoor/outdoor pet, the odds of exposure to living or dead wild birds are much higher. However, keeping your cat safe from bird flu goes beyond just keeping them indoors.
Here are some other ways to protect your pet from HPAI:
- Avoid feeding your cat raw meat or milk. In Oregon in 2024, two housecats died from bird flu after eating Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey Recipe raw pet food. In California, the Los Angeles Department of Public Health is investigating the deaths of two indoor cats who were fed raw milk.
- Even if your cat only ventures outside in a “catio” or other protected enclosure, ensure wild birds cannot drop their feces into the area.
- Mice often invade homes, and they can carry bird flu. If you discover a mouse in the house (although your cat may find it first), discourage them from acting upon their natural instincts. Set up mousetraps in areas inaccessible to your cat.
Bird Flu Symptoms
Avian flu symptoms may include the following:
- Neurological symptoms, such as seizures, tremors, or blindness
- Copious discharge from the nose and eyes
- Serious respiratory issues
- Severe depression
While the cat needs immediate veterinary attention, tell your vet about its symptoms so the staff is prepared to isolate the animal upon arrival.
Bird Flu Symptoms in Humans
In humans, bird flu symptoms may mimic other common conditions. Such symptoms include:
- Conjunctivitis
- Mild fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Coughing
Since most people will assume they are suffering from a cold or standard case of influenza, it is likely human bird flu cases are underreported. Many infected individuals never develop symptoms but are still contagious.
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