Stray Cat in San Mateo County Tests Positive for H5N1 Bird Flu
State veterinary and health officials have confirmed a case of H5N1 bird flu in a domestic stray cat in San Mateo County, California. The infection, which is not related to the recent bird flu outbreak in a backyard flock, was found in a stray cat from Half Moon Bay. After showing symptoms, the cat was taken to the Peninsula Humane Society, where veterinarians conducted tests that confirmed the presence of H5N1. Sadly, due to the cat's condition, it was euthanized.
How Could a Cat Contract Bird Flu?
Domestic cats, especially those that go outside, can become exposed to bird flu in several ways, including consuming infected birds, being in contaminated environments, or even ingesting unpasteurized milk from infected cows. The stray cat in this case was likely exposed to the virus through contact with infected birds or contaminated areas, but the exact method of transmission remains unknown.
Risk to Humans and Other Animals
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the risk of H5N1 transmission from cats to humans is extremely low, although there is a possibility that certain strains of bird flu could be transmitted from animals to people.
This case serves as a reminder for pet owners to be vigilant, especially if their animals have been in contact with sick or dead wild birds or poultry. Symptoms in pets that may indicate bird flu include fever, lethargy, loss of appetite, and neurologic signs such as tremors, seizures, or blindness. As the illness progresses, respiratory signs like difficulty breathing, sneezing, or coughing may appear. In severe cases, pets can die from the illness.
What Should Pet Owners Do?
Lori Morton-Feazell, Chief of Animal Control and Licensing in San Mateo County, emphasizes the importance of working closely with veterinarians: “If your pet is sick, your veterinarian can determine whether it should be tested for bird flu or any other virus or disease.”
Key Symptoms to Watch For:
Loss of appetite
Lethargy and depression
Discharge from eyes or nose
Respiratory distress (rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, sneezing)
Neurologic signs (circling, seizures, blindness)
While human cases linked to this recent bird flu case in a cat have not been reported, staying proactive in protecting your pets and your health is essential during bird flu outbreaks. Keep your pets indoors as much as possible to reduce their exposure to wild birds, and regularly monitor them for any signs of illness.
