Possible Bird Flu Found in Cats Linked to Recalled Raw Milk in Los Angeles County

LOS ANGELES—On Thursday, public health officials announced they are investigating two suspected cases of H5 bird flu in cats that ingested recalled raw milk in Los Angeles County.

As per the county Department of Public Health, the two cats had consumed raw milk connected to a recall by Raw Farm LLC. Following this, the felines exhibited symptoms such as loss of appetite, fever, and neurological signs, eventually leading to their deaths.

Health officials reported that both cats tested positive for Influenza A, a rare condition among felines.

DPH officials are currently awaiting further test results to confirm whether the cats contracted H5 bird flu.

According to a statement from DPH, “The nationwide H5 bird flu outbreak has resulted in other cats contracting the virus after consuming infected raw milk.”

“Individuals who had direct contact with the cats are being monitored for symptoms and have been provided with antiviral prophylaxis,” the agency stated. “No human cases of bird flu associated with contact with these cats have been identified so far.”

Barbara Ferrer, director of DPH, stated, “The risk of H5 bird flu remains low in Los Angeles County, but this potential case in a pet cat that consumed raw milk serves as a reminder that raw dairy products can pose serious health risks for cats.”

“To help prevent disease transmission, including H5 bird flu, we strongly advise residents and their pets to avoid raw dairy and undercooked meat products, limit interaction with sick or deceased animals, report any sick or dead birds, and keep pets or poultry away from wild animals and birds,” she added.

Authorities are strongly recommending that residents refrain from consuming raw milk and not feed it to their pets. This includes frozen raw milk products, as freezing does not eliminate the harmful germs that may cause illness, according to health officials. Pasteurized milk, however, is considered safe for consumption.