This week, scientists revealed that over half of the cats on the first Texas dairy farm to test positive for bird flu this spring died after consuming raw milk from infected cows. The study, published in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Emerging Infectious Diseases journal, details the initial investigation into the disease’s spread among cows in the region earlier this year.
The cats at the farm were fed raw milk from cows infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI H5N1. As cows began showing signs of illness, the cats followed suit, with more than half succumbing to the virus.
Autopsies and tests conducted on the deceased cats revealed high levels of the virus and severe systemic infection. Although only a fraction of cows showed signs of illness, up to 15%, the virus has had devastating effects on poultry flocks and has been linked to neurological disorders in cats.
While the spread of the virus from cows to cats through raw milk is new, cats have long been known to be vulnerable to severe disease from H5N1. In response to these recent infections, the CDC issued new guidance for veterinarians treating suspect H5N1 cases in cats, emphasizing precautionary measures to prevent transmission to humans.
Meanwhile, efforts are underway to curb further spread of the virus in dairy cattle, believed to have originated from a single spillover event from wild birds. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has intensified testing, including ground beef sold at retailers, to monitor the situation and mitigate risks.
As authorities continue to monitor the situation, it’s crucial to adhere to safety guidelines and avoid consuming raw milk. With over 2,000 tests conducted this month alone, vigilance remains paramount in protecting both animal and public health.
