By: Najla Alexander
Westfield officials announced that their Regional Health Department (WRHD) is urging pet owners to be vigilant following reports of bird flu (H5N1) in cats.
The virus has recently been detected in several outdoor cats in Hunterdon County and over 100 domestic cats nationwide, Westfield officials stated.
Cats are susceptible to the H5N1 virus and may become infected after eating raw meat, raw dairy products, or by exposure to an infected animal, Wesfield officials stated.
Pet owners should be aware of the following signs of infection:
-Loss of appetite
-Lethargy
-Neurologic signs (tremors, difficulty walking, seizures)
-Respiratory signs (weepy eyes, sneezing, coughing, changing in breathing)
According to Westfield authorities, pet owners who suspect their cat is sick with bird flu or believe their pet was exposed to an infected animal should contact a veterinarian immediately.
To reduce the risk of infection, the Westfield Regional Health Department advises the following preventive measures:
-Thoroughly cook all meat before feeding and avoid raw meat-based diets and raw dairy products.
-Keep cats indoors to prevent exposure to infected birds and wildlife.
-Avoid handling sick or dead birds and other wildlife.
-Wash hands thoroughly after handling pets, livestock, or poultry.
-Change clothes and shoes after contact with potentially infected animals.
“H5N1 poses a serious risk to wildlife, farm animals, and even our pets,” reports Megan Avallone, Health Officer for the WRHD.
“Cat owners should take extra precautions to prevent exposure, especially now that the virus has been detected in cats in New Jersey."
For more information on avian influenza in cats, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association website and the Westfield Regional Health Department website.