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Avian flu (also known as highly pathogenic avian Influenza or HPAI, avian influenza, or bird flu) is a viral infection caused by influenza type A viruses. It primarily affects wild birds and domestic poultry.
The H5N1 strain of avian flu is of particular concern due to its ability to spread rapidly and potentially infect non-avian species, including mammals like dogs and cats; predators like foxes, bears, and skunks that feed on diseased waterfowl; and some zoo animals. Recently there have been an increased number of confirmed human infections from exposure to dairy cows and birds.
During outbreaks, the virus can spread when animals contact infected birds, their droppings, feathers, or contaminated environments. Wild birds are the primary carriers, but backyard poultry and pet birds may also be at risk, especially during significant outbreaks. The H5N1 influenza has become endemic (meaning there is a low-grade, constant infection rate) in certain flocks of waterfowl in North America.
Dogs and cats can be infected with avian flu, although cases are rare. Pets are at risk when they come into contact with infected birds, droppings from poultry or waterfowl, or contaminated surfaces. Pets might be exposed by consuming unpasteurized milk, or by hunting or eating raw poultry, including from some raw pet food diets.
> "Dogs and cats can be infected with avian flu, although cases are rare."Pet birds are at much higher risk of contracting avian flu than dogs or cats, especially pet birds that live outdoors or come into contact with wild birds. Pet birds may be infected if they are exposed to wild birds, bird droppings, or contaminated feed and water.
Birds kept indoors have a lower risk but can still be exposed if their food, bedding, or enclosures are contaminated. People who own pet birds and also have backyard poultry or waterfowl flocks/pets must maintain special cleaning habits and practices to reduce the likelihood of infection.
As cases are rare, the disease process is not fully understood. Infected dogs or cats may show non-specific signs, including:
The symptoms of avian flu can vary based on the severity of the infection. Watch for:
If you notice any of these symptoms in your pets or birds, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early detection and treatment are critical.
Taking preventative measures can help protect your furry or feathered pets from avian flu.
Limit Contact with Birds:
Supervise Outdoor Time:
Practice Good Hygiene:
Avoid Feeding Pets Raw Poultry or Unpasteurized (Raw) Milk:
Keep Your Birds Indoors:
Secure Their Environment:
Monitor for Symptoms:
Maintain Hygiene:
Source Feed Safely:
If there is an avian flu outbreak in your area, it is extremely important to be extra cautious.
If your pet dog, cat, or bird shows any signs of illness after potential exposure to wild birds, droppings, or contaminated environments, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can make all the difference.
Find more information from the American Veterinary Medical Association at AVMA.org or the Center for Disease Control at CDC.gov. In Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) must be notified when a positive case is verified by laboratory testing.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Feb 13, 2025.
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2801 Keele St. Unit #101 Downsview, ON M3M 2G6
Phone: 416- 633-2255
Fax: 416-633-2305
E-Mail: downsviewveterinary@bellnet.ca
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