Tim Hanson’s cat Kira became infected with bird flu after consuming raw chicken in specialty pet food from Wild Coast Pet Foods. Despite financial compensation sought by Hanson, the company has not responded to the lawsuit and has since transitioned to fully cooked poultry recipes. The USDA has reported infections in 126 domestic cats in the U.S. due to bird flu exposure through food or milk.
Cases of bird flu affecting cats are increasing, and the infection can be swift and lethal in felines. There have been instances of raw pet food being contaminated with the virus, leading to recalls by various manufacturers. Cats can contract bird flu from infected poultry, and there is concern about the potential transmission to humans as the virus spreads among cats.
The severity of bird flu in cats is unique compared to other animals, with fewer cases recorded in dogs and cows, and only one human fatality recorded in the U.S. Cats have receptors that make them more susceptible to flu viruses, causing systemic infections that can be severe. The virus can also mutate and pose a threat to human health.
Several cat owners, including Hanson and Journell, have pursued legal action against pet food companies and raw milk suppliers after their cats contracted bird flu. There is ongoing concern about the spread of the virus among cats and the potential risks to humans. Hanson hopes his experience with Kira will serve as a warning to other cat owners to be cautious about the food they feed their pets.
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