Raw Pet Food Recall Issued After Cat Fatalities Linked to Avian Influenza: What Veterinarians Need to Know

Veterinary professionals should be aware of a recent recall involving raw pet food after two indoor cats in Oregon were diagnosed with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and subsequently euthanized. The affected cats, from separate households in Multnomah County, had consumed the same brand of raw pet food prior to developing severe illness.

Recalled Product Information

The implicated product, Wild Coast Pet Foods’ Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula, is being voluntarily recalled for the following lot numbers:

• Lot #22660 and #22664

• Best-buy date: December 2025

Veterinarians should advise pet owners to immediately dispose of any affected product and seek a refund from the place of purchase. The food was distributed in retail stores throughout Washington and Oregon, with planned expansion to California.

HPAI Transmission and Risks to Companion Animals

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has noted that domestic and wild cats are highly susceptible to HPAI, often contracting the virus through consumption of infected raw meats or unpasteurized dairy products. While dogs can also contract the virus, they typically experience mild symptoms with a lower mortality rate compared to felines.

Recent reports indicate multiple cases of HPAI transmission to cats through raw food consumption, leading to severe illness and fatalities. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) have emphasized the importance of proper food handling and biosecurity measures to reduce transmission risks.

Clinical Signs and Veterinary Guidance

Veterinarians should be vigilant for the following clinical signs in pets suspected of HPAI infection:

• Fever

• Lethargy

• Anorexia

• Ocular inflammation (red or swollen eyes)

• Nasal discharge

• Respiratory distress

• Neurological symptoms (seizures, tremors, incoordination, blindness)

If a pet has consumed the recalled food and exhibits these symptoms, immediate veterinary attention is warranted. Veterinarians should report suspected cases to local agricultural or public health authorities.

Preventative Measures for Pet Owners

The Oregon Department of Agriculture provides the following recommendations to reduce the risk of HPAI transmission:

• Avoid feeding pets raw or undercooked meat, including freeze-dried products.

• Do not give pets raw (unpasteurized) milk or colostrum.

• Prevent pets from consuming wild birds or other animals.

• Wash hands thoroughly after handling raw meat or interacting with livestock and poultry.

• Change clothing and footwear after contact with animals before engaging with household pets.

• Consult a veterinarian if a pet shows signs of illness, particularly if exposure to raw poultry products or wild birds has occurred.

Public Health Considerations

The current human health risk remains low; however, individuals in contact with infected animals or contaminated products should monitor for symptoms such as conjunctivitis, respiratory distress, fever, fatigue, nausea, and gastrointestinal issues. Pet owners or handlers with these symptoms should seek medical guidance.

Previous Recall Incidents

This recall follows a similar action in December 2024, when Northwest Naturals recalled its Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food after a cat in Oregon succumbed to HPAI. The affected product had been distributed across multiple U.S. states and British Columbia.

Veterinarians should continue to educate clients on the risks of raw feeding and encourage safe pet nutrition practices to prevent future outbreaks.