Pet Safety: What you need to know about the H5N1 Virus

Pet Safety: What you need to know about the H5N1 Virus

As reports of avian flu (H5N1) have emerged across the nation and right here in Oregon, many pet owners have wondered if there is a concern for their pets’ safety. Oregon Humane Society’s Chief Medical Officer Steve Kochis has been in communication with the Oregon Department of Agriculture to ensure we have all the up-to-date information.

H5N1 in Oregon

Strains of H5N1 have been circulating in poultry and dairy farms since 2022. While cats appear to be susceptible to contracting the virus, there have been no documented cases of cat to cat or cat to human transmission. Because of this, the ODA is not concerned about pet owners adopting cats from shelters.

The greatest risk of transmission to animals, cats in particular, remains through exposure to geese and ducks (waterfowl) and consumption of raw food diets and raw dairy products. Currently, there does not appear to be a risk of transmission from backyard birds/songbirds to people or pets.

  • The ODA encourages people who are working with community/feral cats to continue feeding and caring for those cats, to reduce the chances of them hunting and potentially becoming infected through contact with waterfowl.
  • The ODA also believes that normal cleaning protocols and husbandry seen in shelters like OHS are more than adequate infection control measures.

Reducing Risk

OHS medical teams are aware of this disease and have the tools to submit for testing and report as appropriate. OHS will continue to monitor the situation to keep the animals we care for safe.

Although the risk of transmission to pets is low, there are steps you can take to limit your pet’s potential exposure. The guidance below from the ODA:

  • Do not feed your pet undercooked or raw meat, including uncooked or freeze-dried meat-based diets, treats, or animal products. 
  • Do not feed your pet raw (unpasteurized) milk or colostrum. 
  • Keep pets away from wild birds, poultry, and cattle (especially in areas with known H5N1 outbreaks). 
  • Prevent pets from eating birds or other wild animals. 
  • Wash your hands after touching raw meat and after interacting with poultry, livestock or animals outside your household. 
  • Consider changing clothing and shoes after interacting with animals or birds with unknown health status and before interacting with your own pets. 
  • Contact your veterinarian if your pet appears sick. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has been exposed to any of the above. 

OHS will continue to provide updates and follow recommended best practices as new information or guidance from ODA emerges.