Fatal bird flu cases linked to contaminated raw cat food
NEW YORK (PIX11) -- Trevor Wells, holding Pepper, one of the two fur babies he and his wife share a home in Harlem.
They’re part of a larger, extended family of kitty owners wondering what to make of the news of two fatal bird flu cases in New York City, one in Brooklyn, the other in Manhattan – both, in housecats.
"It's definitely concerning," said Wells. "I don't really know what the risk factors are."
To be clear, these two fatal “bird flu in housecat cases” had nothing to do with live poultry markets. This time, New York City health officials say the culprit was tainted raw cat food, sold by Savage Cat Food, specifically contaminated Lot #: 111-520-26.
The company sent PIX11 News a lengthy statement which reads in part: “We are incredibly saddened to hear that the kitten has passed. We are currently working with the FDA and gathering information related to this case.”
Trevor and the cat owners we met on Monday were not aware of the Savage Cat Food connection. They were just worried.
"I don't know what to feel right now except to patiently wait for them to give me more information," said cat owner and Manhattan resident Annie Davis, adding she is feeling a little nervous.
The company’s website boasts that “Savage Cat Food contains real animal bone and marrow,” and “our packets include actual muscle chunks, such as diced chicken breast, that encourage chewing and gnawing.”
They also mention that “all of our raw meat is sourced from the United States.”
According to the USDA, the house cat and bird flu connection is quite common. In fact, since May 2022, Domestic Cats represent about 20% of Bird Flu Detections Nationwide.
Still, Sally Slavinski of the City Health Department says the risk for human infection remains very low. "We are learning so much about this virus every day. At this time, the risk remains low for the general public."
Pet owners are encouraged to follow these tips:
- Avoid feeding pets raw food or raw milk.
- If your pet has eaten raw food and shows signs of sickness, call your vet immediately, and isolate them from other pets.
- Keep your pets indoors.
- If you are walking your dog, avoid dead or sick animals.
The health department says the FDA is working with Savage Cat Food on a recall for the tainted lot.