From Humans to Cats: The Unexpected Spread of Bird Flu.
For years, bird flu (avian influenza) was seen as a disease mostly affecting poultry and wild birds. But in a surprising twist, recent cases suggest that the virus is expanding its reach—not just to mammals like cows and sea lions, but now even to household pets like cats.
This unexpected development raises alarming questions: How is the virus spreading, and what does it mean for humans?
Scientists have long warned that viruses evolve, sometimes jumping between species in ways we don’t anticipate.
In several recent cases, domestic cats have tested positive for highly pathogenic strains of bird flu after eating infected raw meat or coming into contact with contaminated environments.
Some have died from severe infections, showing that the virus is not just present but potentially dangerous to non-avian species.
The spread to mammals suggests that bird flu may be mutating in ways that make it more adaptable. While transmission between cats and humans hasn’t been confirmed, the possibility of further jumps raises concerns about pandemic potential.
Experts fear that if the virus continues to spread among mammals, it could eventually evolve the ability to transmit more easily between humans—just as past flu pandemics have emerged from animal reservoirs.
So, what can pet owners do? Avoid feeding raw meat from unknown sources, keep cats indoors in outbreak areas, and stay informed about any new developments.