Pet Food Recall Issued Over Bird Flu Concerns

A Washington-based pet food company has issued a recall on its frozen raw chicken formula for cats due to concerns over possible contamination with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, also known as bird flu.

On March 1, Wild Coast Raw, located in Olympia, Washington, pulled its Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food from shelves, according to an announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The recall affects 16 oz. and 24 oz. packages, with specific lot numbers listed on the FDA’s website.

The recall follows recent warnings from the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) after two domestic indoor cats tested positive for bird flu. One of the cats had to be euthanized due to severe illness, while the other is undergoing treatment.

Health officials are urging pet owners to be aware of potential bird flu symptoms in cats, including:

• Fever and lethargy
• Low appetite
• Eye redness or discharge
• Difficulty breathing
• Neurological issues like tremors, seizures, or lack of coordination

Veterinarians advise that any pets showing symptoms should be seen by a professional immediately.

While cats can contract bird flu from infected birds, experts say that consuming contaminated raw pet food is another potential risk. David J. Cennimo, MD, an infectious disease expert at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, explained that raw pet food made with infected poultry can transmit the virus, which is why recalls like this are necessary. Cooked poultry products, however, remain safe for both pets and humans.

So far, there have been no human cases linked to handling raw pet food, but the FDA warns that exposure to contaminated food could pose a risk if the virus enters the eyes, nose, or mouth. To minimize this risk, pet owners should wash their hands thoroughly after handling raw pet food and disinfect all surfaces that come into contact with the product, including bowls, countertops, and refrigerators.

People who may have been exposed to contaminated pet food should monitor for bird flu symptoms, which can include:

• Cough, sore throat, or sneezing
• Eye redness or irritation
• Fatigue and muscle aches
• Fever and trouble breathing
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

If symptoms develop, individuals are advised to contact their healthcare provider and local health department.

The WSDA also discourages feeding raw pet food or raw milk to animals, citing ongoing public health concerns. Experts recommend that sick pets be isolated and that owners take proper precautions when caring for them.

For more details on the recall, pet owners can visit the FDA’s official website.