5 Sep 2025: Health authorities in San Francisco have reported the euthanasia of a domestic cat after it contracted bird flu (H5N1) from contaminated raw pet food, raising concerns among veterinarians and pet owners about the growing risks of zoonotic diseases in household pets.
Incident Details
The cat, a three-year-old indoor pet, was brought to a local animal hospital with severe respiratory distress, loss of appetite, and fever. Despite intensive care, the infection worsened rapidly, forcing veterinarians to make the difficult decision to euthanize it to prevent further suffering.
Laboratory tests confirmed that the cat was infected with avian influenza, most likely linked to the raw poultry-based pet food it consumed. This is one of the first confirmed cases of bird flu transmission to a domestic cat in the United States this year.
Health Officials’ Warning
The San Francisco Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have urged pet owners to exercise caution when feeding raw meat diets to pets, as improperly handled raw poultry can harbor dangerous pathogens, including salmonella and avian influenza.
“Bird flu is highly contagious among birds and can occasionally spread to mammals, including cats and humans. While human transmission risk remains low, pet owners should take preventive measures,” said Dr. Emily Tran, an infectious disease specialist.
Precautionary Measures for Pet Owners
Veterinarians recommend the following safety steps to minimize the risk of infection:
- Avoid feeding raw or undercooked meat to pets, especially poultry products.
- Wash hands and utensils thoroughly after handling pet food.
- Store pet food safely in a refrigerator or freezer, following manufacturer guidelines.
- Keep pets indoors to limit exposure to wild birds or contaminated droppings.
- Monitor pets for symptoms such as coughing, lethargy, loss of appetite, or difficulty breathing and seek veterinary care immediately if symptoms appear.
Wider Implications
Experts note that cases like this highlight the importance of monitoring zoonotic diseases that can jump from animals to humans. The CDC is closely tracking avian influenza outbreaks across the country to prevent potential spillover events.
Public Response
News of the case has sparked debates on social media about the safety of raw pet food diets. While advocates argue raw feeding is more “natural,” veterinary associations emphasize that proper handling and sourcing are critical to prevent health risks.
Summary
A San Francisco cat was euthanized after contracting bird flu from raw pet food. Authorities urge pet owners to avoid raw meat diets, maintain hygiene, and watch for respiratory symptoms in pets.