Bird Flu Symptoms in Cats: Everything You Need to Know

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is a highly contagious viral disease primarily affecting birds. However, in rare cases, cats can contract bird flu, particularly the H5N1 and H5N8 strains. Understanding bird flu symptoms in cats, how they get infected, and possible treatments is crucial for cat owners.

Bird Flu Symptoms in Cats

Bird flu symptoms in cats can be severe and develop quickly. The virus affects the respiratory and nervous systems, leading to life-threatening complications. Here are some common bird flu symptoms in cats:

• Fever – A high body temperature (above 102.5°F or 39.2°C) is a common sign.
• Lethargy – Infected cats may become weak, sluggish, and uninterested in activities.
• Difficulty breathing – Labored breathing, coughing, or wheezing could indicate a respiratory infection.
• Nasal discharge – Mucus or pus-like discharge from the nose is common.
• Eye discharge – Watery, red, or inflamed eyes with thick discharge.
• Loss of appetite – Cats with bird flu may refuse to eat or drink.
• Vomiting and diarrhea – Some cats may experience gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Neurological symptoms – Seizures, uncoordinated movements, or tremors may occur in severe cases.
• Sudden death – In some cases, bird flu can cause sudden death, especially in young or weak cats.
  
  

If you notice any of these bird flu symptoms in cats, seek veterinary care immediately.

How Bird Flu Spreads in Cats

Bird flu can spread among cats through various means, including:

• Eating infected birds – This is the most common way cats contract bird flu.
• Direct contact with infected birds or poultry – Cats that roam outside may interact with sick birds.
• Exposure to contaminated surfaces – Water bowls, food dishes, or bedding contaminated with the virus can transmit bird flu.
• Airborne transmission – While less common, some strains of bird flu can spread through respiratory droplets.
  
  

Understanding these transmission methods can help prevent infections in domestic cats.

How to Know if a Cat Has Bird Flu

If you suspect your cat has bird flu, here are some ways to confirm the diagnosis:

1. Veterinary Examination – A veterinarian will check for respiratory distress, fever, and neurological issues.
2. Laboratory Testing – PCR tests and blood tests can detect bird flu viruses in cats.
3. X-rays or Ultrasounds – Imaging may be done to check for lung infections or complications.
4. History of Exposure – If your cat has recently eaten an infected bird or been in an area with bird flu outbreaks, it increases the likelihood of infection.

Early detection is critical to managing the disease and preventing its spread.

Bird Flu vs. Common Feline Respiratory Infections

Bird flu symptoms can resemble other respiratory infections in cats, such as:

• Feline herpesvirus (FHV-1) – Causes sneezing, eye infections, and nasal discharge.
• Feline calicivirus (FCV) – Leads to oral ulcers, fever, and nasal congestion.
• Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) – Causes fever, weight loss, and respiratory distress.

Unlike these common infections, bird flu often progresses rapidly, with severe neurological signs and a high fatality rate.

Is There a Cure for Bird Flu in Cats?

Currently, there is no specific cure for bird flu in cats. However, treatment focuses on supportive care, which includes:

• Hospitalization – In severe cases, cats may need oxygen therapy and intensive care.
• Fluids and Nutrition – IV fluids help prevent dehydration.
• Antibiotics – While antibiotics cannot kill the virus, they can treat secondary bacterial infections.
• Antiviral Medications – Some antivirals, like Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), may help in early stages.

Most cases of bird flu in cats have a high mortality rate, so prevention is the best approach.

Can Cats Catch Bird Flu in the UK/US?

Yes, cats can catch bird flu in the UK and the US. Bird flu outbreaks have been reported in both countries, especially in wild and domestic birds. The risk to cats increases if they:

• Hunt and eat infected birds
• Drink from contaminated water sources
• Come into contact with infected poultry or surfaces

Government agencies like the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) in the US and DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) in the UK closely monitor bird flu cases.

Some Study And Data Records Are As follows:

Domestic cats in both the United States and the United Kingdom have been found to contract bird flu, primarily through interactions with infected wild birds or consumption of contaminated raw poultry products.

United States:

• Pet Food Contamination: In March 2025, Wild Coast Raw, a pet food company based in Olympia, Washington, recalled certain lots of its Frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula cat food due to potential contamination with the H5N1 avian influenza virus. This recall followed the deaths of two cats in Oregon that consumed the affected product.

  reuters.com

   

• Human Infection via Cats: Research indicates that domestic cats can contract the H5N1 virus and potentially transmit it to humans. A review of scientific literature suggests that pet cats should be monitored for bird flu due to this risk.

  University of Maryland School of Public Health

   

• Infection in Dairy Cows: In April 2024, H5N1 was detected in dairy cattle herds across multiple U.S. states. Cats consuming unpasteurized milk from infected cows exhibited a high mortality rate from severe systemic influenza infections.

  en.wikipedia.org

   

United Kingdom:

• No Confirmed Cases: As of March 2025, no pet cats or dogs have been found with avian influenza in the UK. Health authorities advise pet owners to prevent their pets from coming into contact with wild birds, especially sick or dead ones, to minimize any potential risk.
  gov.scot

While the risk to domestic cats remains low, pet owners are advised to monitor their pets for symptoms of bird flu and consult a veterinarian if any concerns arise.

Can Cats Get Sick from Eating Birds?

Yes, cats can get sick from eating birds, even if the bird does not have bird flu. Potential risks include:

• Bird Flu (H5N1, H5N8) – Some infected birds can pass the virus to cats.
• Parasites – Birds may carry parasites like roundworms or tapeworms.
• Bacteria (Salmonella, Campylobacter) – Raw birds can cause bacterial infections.
• Toxins – Certain birds may carry environmental toxins.

To reduce risk, keep cats indoors and avoid feeding them raw birds.

Prevention Tips

Here are some key prevention strategies to protect your cat from bird flu:

• Keep cats indoors to limit contact with infected birds.
• Avoid feeding raw birds or poultry to your cat.
• Wash your hands after handling birds or cleaning bird feeders.
• Disinfect water and food bowls if your cat goes outside.
• Stay informed about local bird flu outbreaks.

FAQs 

1. Can humans get bird flu from cats?

While rare, there have been cases where humans have contracted bird flu from infected cats. Always take precautions when handling a sick cat.

2. How long does bird flu last in cats?

Bird flu progresses quickly and can become fatal within a few days if untreated.

3. Can bird flu be prevented in cats?

Yes, by keeping cats indoors, avoiding contact with wild birds, and following hygiene measures, you can significantly reduce the risk.

4. Can vaccinated cats still get bird flu?

There is no commercial bird flu vaccine for cats. However, some experimental vaccines have been tested.

5. What should I do if my cat eats a dead bird?

Monitor for symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or breathing issues and consult a veterinarian immediately.

Conclusion

Bird flu in cats is rare but serious. Understanding bird flu symptoms in cats, early detection, and preventative measures can help protect your pet. If you suspect bird flu, seek immediate veterinary attention to improve your cat’s chances of survival.

By staying informed and proactive, you can keep your cat safe from this deadly virus.