Introduction

In a startling development that has sent shockwaves through pet ownership communities, an Oregon pet food company has issued a voluntary recall after a tragic incident involving a house cat. The feline reportedly died after consuming their product, which has since tested positive for the highly pathogenic bird flu virus, H5N1. Alarmingly, this batch of affected pet food has also been distributed in British Columbia.

The Recall Announcement

Northwest Naturals, based in Portland, Oregon, announced the recall, specifically targeting a batch of its two-pound frozen Feline Turkey Recipe. Testing confirmed the presence of the virus, leading the company to take action to prevent any further incidents. The contaminated pet food was not only sold in Oregon, but also in various states including California, Colorado, Washington, and parts of Canada.

State's Response

The Oregon Department of Agriculture expounded on the severity of the situation, revealing that the infected house cat was located in Washington County and had not been exposed to the virus outside, suggesting that the source was indeed the pet food. This highlights the risk associated with raw pet diets and the potential dangers they can pose.

Consumer Advisory

Consumers of the recalled product are urged to check for packages marked with “Best if used by” dates between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026, as these are the specific batches in question. Pet owners are advised to dispose of any recalled items immediately to ensure the safety of their furry companions.

Health Implications

Though there are currently no reported cases of human infection from this incident, health officials are stressing the importance of cooking meat thoroughly to safeguard against harmful pathogens. The Oregon Department of Agriculture emphasizes that this unfortunate case is a critical reminder for pet owners about the risks of feeding raw meat.

Ongoing Uncertainty

As the situation develops, Health Canada has yet to respond to inquiries regarding an official recall of the products distributed in Canada. This delay leaves many pet owners in a state of uncertainty, urging the public to remain vigilant and informed about their pets’ diets.

Conclusion

Stay tuned as we continue to cover this unfolding story and its implications for pet nutrition and public health!