Indoor Cats Infected With Bird Flu From Dairy Farm Exposure: What We Know

Two domestic cats have been diagnosed with bird flu in Michigan, marking a rare occurrence of the virus infecting indoor pets. The cats, both living in the homes of dairy workers with possible occupational exposure, displayed respiratory and neurological symptoms. Unlike other cases of bird flu in farm cats, these cats had no direct exposure to affected dairy farms.

Why It Matters

The detection of bird flu in the indoor cats raises concerns about the virus spreading beyond farms, stressing potential risks for household pets in areas with confirmed outbreaks in livestock. With the virus circulating among dairy cattle, the possibility of human-to-cat transmission or exposure via contaminated environments requires heightened vigilance from veterinarians and public health officials.

What To Know

The bird flu virus has been detected in cats on U.S. dairy farms, typically associated with exposure to infected poultry or contaminated dairy products, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. But the case represents a rare instance in which the infected cats had no direct link to affected farms. The initial case involved an indoor cat with severe neurological symptoms, leading to euthanasia after rapid deterioration. Genetic sequencing confirmed the presence of HPAI A(H5N1), or bird flu, with the virus strain matching those found in nearby dairy cattle. The cats' owners, both dairy workers, had indirect contact with infected livestock. One worked at a dairy farm and the other transported unpasteurized milk from farms with confirmed outbreaks. Neither underwent testing for the virus, though other household members tested negative. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and the Mid-Michigan District Health Department initiated an investigation. They stressed the importance of veterinarians considering occupational history when evaluating pets for HPAI infection. Veterinarians in areas with bird flu in livestock are urged to take appropriate precautions, including wearing protective gear when treating animals with respiratory or neurological illnesses. Suspected cases should be reported to the public and animal health officials.

What People Are Saying

The CDC, in its Thursday report: "Although reported cases of infection of indoor cats with HPAI A(H5N1) viruses are rare, such cats might pose a risk for human infection." It added: "Given the potential for fomite contamination, farmworkers are encouraged to consider removing clothing and footwear and to rinse off any animal byproduct residue (including milk and feces) before entering households."

What Happens Next

Further research is needed to understand the risks of transmission between humans, livestock and pets. Public health authorities continue to monitor the issue, and veterinarians are urged to remain cautious and proactive when evaluating animals for signs of illness, especially in regions with known outbreaks in livestock.