With the kids heading back to school and summer coming to an end, the Pine Valley Team finds ourselves thinking about all the things these changing days will bring: Falling leaves, pumpkin patches, Christmas time, and unfortunately… flu season. If you’re a cat mom or dad, keep a close eye on your furbaby this time of year. One diagnosis we’ve been seeing is Avian Influenza a.k.a. “the Bird Flu.” But don’t let the name fool you! Although it primarily infects birds, the Bird Flu can cross over to cats, farm animals, and humans. Let’s dive into the signs and symptoms of this disease, how to treat it, and what you can do to keep your cat safe this flu season.

What is Bird Flu in Cats?

Bird Flu is a viral infection caused by strains of the influenza virus, such as the H5N1 strain. Cats don’t normally carry this virus (else it’d likely be called the “cat flu”), but they can contract it by coming into close contact with infected birds, livestock, or objects, consuming diseased birds, or drinking raw milk. Ergo, your indoor apartment kitty has an easy time staying safe from this disease. The Bird Flu mainly affects furbabies who love to explore the outdoors, like barn cats.

Signs and Symptoms

The signs of Bird Flu in cats can be subtle, so it’s important to keep a close eye on your furry friend if you think they’ve been exposed. Common symptoms to look out for include:

• Fever: A noticeable increase in your cat’s body temperature.
• Lethargy: Unusual tiredness or reluctance to move from their favorite window spot.
• Difficulty Breathing: Heavy or rapid breathing, often joined by coughing.
• Sneezing and Nasal Discharge: Clear or yellow mucus from the nose.
• Loss of Appetite: A sudden lack of hungry meowing.
• Diarrhea: In some cases, gastrointestinal symptoms, like diarrhea, may occur.

If you observe any of these symptoms, especially after your cat has been in an area with known cases of bird flu, contact the Pine Valley Team as soon as possible.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing bird flu at Pine Valley is done through a comprehensive exam. During your visit, we’ll conduct a clinical examination and laboratory testing. We may recommend blood tests, throat or nasal swabs, and imaging studies like X-rays to determine what’s happening with your furbaby.

While there is no specific antiviral treatment for Bird Flu in cats, we offer supportive care to help manage the illness. This can include:

• Hydration Therapy: Rehydrating your furry friend, either through oral fluids or IV therapy.
• Nutritional Support: Providing a balanced diet or supplements to maintain your cat’s strength.
• Antibiotics: While not effective against the virus itself, antibiotics can be prescribed to treat secondary bacterial infections.
• Oxygen Therapy: For cats experiencing severe respiratory symptoms, oxygen therapy can help improve breathing.

In more extreme cases, hospitalization may be necessary to monitor and support your cat’s recovery.

Preventative Measures

The best defense against Bird Flu in cats is stopping it before it starts. Here are some key steps you can take:

• Keep Cats Indoors: Prevent your cat from hunting or scavenging birds or other animals that may be sick.
• Avoid Contact with Infected Birds: If you keep birds as pets, keep them healthy and free from the virus. Sick or dead wild birds should be avoided entirely.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands after handling birds or cleaning bird cages. Disinfect any surfaces that may have come into contact with birds.
• Regular Veterinary Check-Ups: Routine health check-ups at Pine Valley can help catch potential health issues early and keep your cat’s vaccinations up to date.

When to Seek Veterinary Care

If think your furbaby may have been exposed to Bird Flu, or if you notice any of the symptoms, do not hesitate to contact our Pine Valley Team. Early intervention is key to managing the illness and helping your cat feel better in no time! At Pine Valley Animal Hospital, we’re here to provide the compassionate, expert care your furry friends deserve. If you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s wellness, give us a call or stop by for a visit. We’re here to keep your pets happy and healthy all year long!