H5N1 and Pet Food: What Pet Owners Should Know

The well-being of our furry little friends is a top concern for pet parents everywhere. Recently, concerns about H5N1, a subtype of avian influenza, have sparked discussions about potential risks in the pet food industry, particularly for raw and fresh diets. 

In this article, we’ll look at everything you need to know about the H5N1 virus: what it is, its symptoms, how it spreads, and what pet food contamination risks it's associated with. Read on to stay informed about this evolving topic and what it means for your pet’s health.

What is H5N1?

H5N1, a subtype of the avian influenza virus, primarily affects wild and domestic bird populations. First identified in 1996, this strain has caused significant outbreaks in birds globally and, on rare occasions, infected mammals, including humans and pets. H5N1 spreads through direct contact with infected birds, their saliva, droppings, or surfaces contaminated with the virus. In some cases, it has also spread through ingestion of infected meat.

The risk to humans remains low, but pets – especially those with outdoor access – can be exposed during outbreaks, particularly through contact with infected birds or raw poultry. For example, cats in areas with large poultry populations may encounter infected birds or contaminated raw meat. According to the AVMA, H5N1 infections in pets are rare but not impossible. The CDC also notes that documented infections in mammals have been increasing. As a result, it’s important for pet parents to learn as much as they can about the virus.

The Current Situation

Recent cases of H5N1 have brought the pet food industry under scrutiny. Reports of contaminated raw poultry-based pet food have raised concerns among pet owners, leading to recalls and debates about safety measures.

In one notable case, Northwest Naturals, a raw pet food company, issued a voluntary recall of its Feline Turkey Diet after identifying a potential Avian flu concern. While Northwest Naturals took a proactive step in recalling a product due to potential H5N1 concerns, Monarch Raw Pet Food has disputed similar claims.

For more details on Northwest Naturals' voluntary recall, check their updated FAQ here.

These incidents highlight the importance of rigorous quality control and transparency in the industry. The FDA has encouraged manufacturers to improve their safety plans to prevent potential H5N1 contamination risks.

Is My Pet at Risk?

Pet parents are naturally concerned about the safety of their pets amidst these developments. For pets consuming commercially processed diets, the risk of H5N1 transmission is very low. However, understanding the potential pathways of exposure — such as direct contact with infected animals or consuming raw poultry — is important for pet owners.

Transmission Risks

H5N1 transmission through pet food depends on the type of diet. Processed commercial foods undergo cooking or pasteurization, eliminating viral risk. H5N1 can theoretically be present in raw poultry; however, it does not survive cooking or pasteurization, and there is no current evidence that it withstands high-pressure processing (HPP). As a result, commercially processed foods, particularly those that undergo cooking or pasteurization, are highly unlikely to harbor the virus.

However, raw diets containing poultry, especially from high-risk areas, may pose a concern if the meat is contaminated before feeding.

Symptoms of Avian influenza in pets

Though rare, pets infected with H5N1 may display symptoms such as:

• Lethargy or fatigue

• Respiratory distress (coughing, difficulty breathing)

• Loss of appetite

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Neurological signs (seizures, tremors, or uncoordinated movements in some cases)

If you notice these signs in your pet, especially after exposure to raw poultry or infected birds, seek veterinary care immediately. Cats have been more commonly affected and at the time of this article, there are no confirmed cases of H5N1 in pet dogs in the U.S.

Focus on Raw Diets

Raw diets have grown in popularity due to their potential health benefits, but they require careful sourcing and handling, particularly during avian influenza outbreaks. Raw poultry can carry pathogens, including H5N1, which may pose a risk to pets and their owners if not handled properly. The FDA advises against feeding raw diets sourced from high-risk regions during outbreaks due to potential contamination. While H5N1 has been detected in some poultry meat, this does not mean all raw diets are contaminated. The risk depends on sourcing and handling.

Practical Steps to Keep Your Pets Safe

1. Check Pet Food Sourcing: Choose brands that prioritize transparent sourcing and rigorous safety testing. Look for companies that conduct third-party pathogen testing and provide clear information about ingredient origins.

2. Consider Minimally Processed Alternatives: If your pet eats a raw, unprocessed diet, consider switching to cooked or minimally processed alternatives during outbreaks to reduce the risk of exposure to pathogens, including H5N1. Safer options include lightly cooked, freeze-dried, or HPP diets.

3. Cook Proteins Thoroughly: If you prepare homemade meals for your pet, cook all poultry to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C). This temperature effectively eliminates H5N1 and other harmful pathogens.

4. Practice Safe Food Handling: Wash hands, utensils, and food prep surfaces thoroughly after handling raw meat. Store raw pet food separately from human food to prevent cross-contamination. A key FDA recommendation is to use separate cutting boards for raw meat.

5. Monitor Industry Updates: Stay informed about recalls and developments in pet food safety by checking reliable sources such as the FDA and AVMA. Brands often issue voluntary recalls before the FDA, so also check your pet food brand’s website for the latest updates.

What Experts Are Saying

Veterinary professionals and industry experts emphasize that while H5N1 poses a potential risk, there is no need for panic. Instead, awareness and proactive measures are key to keeping ourselves informed and our pets safe from H5N1.

Veterinary Guidance

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) emphasizes that the risk of H5N1 infection in pets remains low, particularly for those on commercially produced diets. However, they caution against feeding raw poultry-based diets during outbreaks.

Dr. Michele Forbes, DVM, shared a 7-minute video on TikTok detailing what veterinarians currently know about H5N1’s impact on pets, particularly cats. Here’s a brief summary:

• As of recent reports, at least 33 cats have tested positive for H5N1.

• Because H5N1 testing in pets is not mandatory, the actual number of cases may be higher than reported.

• Other mammals—including mice, raccoons, and opossums—have tested positive for H5N1. However, as of now, no cases have been confirmed in pet dogs in the U.S.

• H5N1 can spread through direct exposure to infected birds or by ingesting raw meat, eggs, or milk from an infected animal.

• Preliminary data suggests a high mortality rate in infected cats, but the exact percentage is still under study.

Dr. Forbes emphasizes that because testing is not mandatory and research is still ongoing, there is not yet enough data to draw firm conclusions. However, she advises pet owners — especially those with cats — to avoid feeding raw meat, milk, or eggs as a precaution.

Industry Actions

In response to H5N1 concerns, pet food manufacturers are strengthening safety protocols. Many companies are implementing more rigorous ingredient testing and quality control measures to reduce contamination risks. 

The FDA has urged pet food manufacturers to update their food safety plans to address avian influenza risks, emphasizing enhanced pathogen testing and sourcing controls.

While these measures improve safety, pet owners should still stay informed. Understanding how pet food is sourced and processed is key during periods of heightened risk.

Additional Safety Measures for Pet Owners

Here are more strategies to ensure your pets stay safe and healthy:

1. Understand Recalls and Safety Alerts

Recalls play a crucial role in pet food safety. Stay informed by subscribing to alerts from trusted sources like the FDA and your pet food brand. Acting promptly on recall notices helps minimize risks.

2. Prioritize High-Quality Brands

Not all pet food brands follow the same safety standards. Choose companies that disclose sourcing practices, invest in quality control, and conduct third-party testing. Transparency in ingredient sourcing is a key indicator of a trustworthy brand.

3. Limit Exposure to Wild Birds

Since H5N1 primarily spreads through infected birds, monitor outdoor pets to prevent contact with wild birds. Avoid feeding pets raw bird meat and discourage scavenging to reduce the risk of exposure.

4. Maintain Hygiene at Home

• Practice good food hygiene by disinfecting surfaces and utensils after preparing pet food.

• Use separate cutting boards for raw meat.

• Always wash your hands before and after handling pet food.

5. Stay Educated

H5N1 is an evolving issue, and new information continues to emerge. Stay informed by following updates from trusted sources like the CDC and AVMA. Knowledge empowers us as pet owners to make the best decisions for our pets.

Balancing Risks and Benefits

For many pet owners, feeding a raw diet is a personal choice. While raw diets may offer certain nutritional benefits, they also carry potential risks—especially during outbreaks like H5N1. Understanding and balancing these factors is key to protecting your pet’s health.

Cooked or commercially prepared diets generally carry lower risks, particularly during periods of heightened disease concern. Homemade diets can be a great option when proper precautions are taken, such as thoroughly cooking proteins and consulting a veterinary nutritionist to ensure balanced nutrition.

How My Pet Grocer Can Help

At My Pet Grocer, we’re dedicated to empowering pet parents with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their pets’ nutrition and well-being.

Our upcoming meal mix products are designed with your pet’s health and safety in mind, making it easy to prepare balanced, nutritious meals—without compromising on quality or convenience.

We invite you to explore our resources and reach out with any questions about your pet’s diet. Together, we can navigate challenges like H5N1 with confidence and care.

To Wrap it Up

Your pet’s health and happiness are worth every effort. Here are some key steps you can take to keep them safe from H5N1:

1. Evaluate your pet’s current diet to ensure it follows the safety recommendations in this article.

2. Stay informed by checking trusted sources regularly for updates on H5N1 and pet food safety.

3. Talk to your veterinarian if you have concerns about your pet’s health or diet — professional guidance is always the best resource.

As this situation evolves, My Pet Grocer will continue monitoring developments and sharing updates to keep you informed. Together, we can help your pets stay healthy and happy — no matter what challenges arise.

Sources

1. Monarch Raw Pet Food Company statement on possible contamination

2. Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey Diet's voluntary pet food recall.

3. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-h5n1-cats

4. FDA requests pet food manufacturers to update their safety plans for Avian flu

5. vcahospitals.com: bird flu and cats

6. Dr. Michele Forbes' Tiktok video on Avian influenza in pets

7. Avian flu confirmed in more cats as raw pet food is suspected for the spread

8. FDA requires food manufacturers to consider Avian flu in safety plans