H5N1 Bird Flu Found in Raw Pet Food Sold in California, Sickening Cats

Los Angeles health officials urge pet owners to avoid raw pet food after multiple cats test positive for bird flu, with two fatalities reported.

Los Angeles County health officials confirmed H5N1 bird flu in a house cat after it consumed raw pet food from Monarch Raw Pet Food, with four other cats in the household presumed infected.
Two of the infected cats have died, while the remaining three were treated, quarantined, and returned home.
Monarch Raw Pet Food has been recalled after samples tested positive for bird flu, though the company has not issued a public statement on the recall.
Health experts warn against feeding pets raw meat or unpasteurized dairy products, citing risks of bird flu and other pathogens, particularly for cats, which are highly susceptible.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states the risk of bird flu transmission to humans from infected pets is low, but pet owners are advised to monitor animals for symptoms and consult veterinarians if needed.