Can Cats Catch Avian Flu? Defra Response, UK

Main Category: Bird Flu / Avian Flu
Also Included In: Veterinary
Article Date: 04 Mar 2006 - 4:00 PDT

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We know the cat family can catch avian influenza. We understand avian influenza H5N1 virus has been found in a dead cat found on the island of Rügen (north Germany), where avian influenza H5N1 has been identified in a number of wild birds including swans.

We believe H5N1 infection in cats under natural circumstances is rare as there are few confirmed reports of it occurring. Defra is urgently seeking further scientific advice on this.

We are not currently advising cat owners of any need for precautionary measures at the moment because surveillance of wild birds for H5N1 in the UK has shown no evidence of infection.

A Statement of the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health on the cat case in Germany is available (link to EU website).

http://www.defra.gov.uk