FDA Issues Urgent Warning to Pet Owners

In a startling announcement, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has alerted pet owners across the nation about the discovery of H5N1 avian influenza linked to a specific raw cat food product. This warning comes after a sick cat in San Francisco County tested positive for the virus following a diet of Rawr Raw Cat Food Chicken Eats.

The Dangers of Raw Pet Food

Historically, cases of illness and deaths in cats due to H5N1 have been tied to the consumption of raw foods, raising serious concerns among pet owners. The FDA's latest warning stems from a tragic incident where a cat had to be euthanized after falling seriously ill.

Testing Reveals Troubling Results

Authorities confirmed that a sample from an open package of the relevant cat food, obtained by the cat owner, showed the presence of H5N1. The affected product is packaged in 2.5-pound resealable bags and is available for sale both in stores and online, with sell-by dates extending to 2026.

Behind the Science: Genotype Findings

Advanced genome sequencing conducted by the USDA's National Veterinary Services Laboratory revealed that both the cat and the cat food samples belong to the B3.13 genotype of H5N1, previously identified in dairy cows and commercial poultry farms.

No Human Cases Reported—Yet!

As of now, the FDA reported that there have been no documented cases of human illness attributed to the contaminated cat food. However, the presence of the virus in pet food remains a serious concern.

Company Response: Controversy Arises

In response, the company behind the affected product expressed sorrow over the situation but criticized the FDA for delays in communication regarding the investigation. They assert that all their chicken is USDA-inspected and suggest that the possible contamination might have occurred in the home environment, rather than during production.

Ongoing H5N1 Threat Across U.S.

This alarming situation is compounded by recent reports of H5N1 outbreaks in commercial turkey farms across North Dakota and South Dakota, showcasing that the threat is widespread. Additionally, the USDA has detected the virus in backyard poultry in Georgia.

Take Immediate Precautions!

Pet owners are urged to take this warning seriously and monitor their pets closely. If your cat consumes raw food, especially the specific brand mentioned, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice and stay updated on further developments regarding this situation.