Breaking News: Bird Flu Virus Traces in Raw Pet Food Prompt Alarm in California
In a concerning turn of events, a strain of bird flu virus has been detected in raw pet food, sparking apprehension among pet owners and health authorities in California. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has warned of potential contamination in products distributed by Monarch Raw Pet Food, which are available in several pet stores across the state.
A domestic cat that consumed Monarch’s raw pet food tested positive for a specific protein marker (H5) associated with certain bird flu viruses, as reported by Live Science. This protein is linked to the H5N1 bird flu virus, which has been circulating among poultry and wild birds in the U.S. since 2021. Notably, H5N1 was detected in dairy cattle for the first time in history in 2024, and since then, it has infected at least 66 individuals in the U.S., predominantly those exposed to infected cattle or poultry.
LA County’s statement did not specify if the infected cat was positive for H5N1, but it is likely the culprit. Four other cats in the same household are also suspected to have contracted the virus after consuming the same pet food.
Monarch Raw Pet Food offers various products, including ground chicken, chicken feet, dried chicken hearts, and dried beef liver. However, the statement did not specify which product(s) may be involved or if recalls have begun. The company’s website does not mention recent bird flu cases.
Health officials advise, "Pet owners who feed their pets raw pet food products, including Monarch or other raw meat or dairy products, and notice signs of illness in their pets should immediately contact their veterinarian."
Infected cats may exhibit serious symptoms ranging from loss of appetite and lethargy to liver problems, respiratory issues, and potentially fatal neurological signs. Veterinarians treating suspected cases should wear protective gear, as the virus can transmit through bodily fluids like saliva, feces, and nasal discharge.
This is not the first bird flu case in LA. However, there are no known reports of humans contracting the H5 virus from cats.
