As pet owners, we are always on the lookout for ways to provide the best nutrition for our furry friends. Many people choose raw food diets, believing them to be healthier or more natural. However, a growing concern has emerged : some raw turkey products can contain avian influenza, which poses a serious treat to the health of pets.
According to the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA), Northwest Naturals brand 2lb Feline Turkey Recipe raw & frozen pet food, following the confirmation of H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a domestic cat on December 24, 2024. This cat, an indoor-only pet from Washington County, Oregon, died after consuming this raw pet food. PCR testing and whole genome sequencing confirmed the cat’s infection was linked to frozen raw cat food.
Recalled Product Details:
• Product: Northwest Natural 2lb Feline Turkey Recipe
• Best by Dates: 5/21/26 B10 and 06/23/26 B1
• Distribution: Sold in British Columbia and 12 US states
The Risk: Avian Influenza in Raw Turkey
Avian influenza, or bird flu, is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects birds but can also spread to other animals, including mammals. While bird flu can infect people, it is particularly dangerous to pets such as dogs and cats when they consume raw poultry contaminated with the virus.
While avian influenza rarely transmits directly from birds to humans, the CVMA's concern is about the contamination that can occur in raw meats—especially those that have not been cooked thoroughly. Birds infected with the virus may carry it in their meat, feces, and bodily fluids, making it possible for the pathogen to spread to pets who consume the raw product. Pets that ingest contaminated turkey may face a range of health issues, from respiratory distress to neurological problems, with some cases leading to critical illness or death.
Symptoms of Avian Influenza in Pets
If a pet has consumed raw turkey that may be infected with avian influenza, it's important for owners to be on the lookout for symptoms. Signs that a dog or cat might have been affected include:
Fever
Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
Coughing or sneezing
Loss of appetite
Vomiting or diarrhea
Lethargy or weakness
Neurological signs, such as lack of coordination or seizures
If any of these symptoms are noticed, pet owners should immediately contact their veterinarian. Time is crucial when it comes to avian influenza infections, and prompt treatment can make a difference in the outcome.
Safe Practices for Feeding Pets
To keep your pets safe and healthy, it's crucial to follow safe feeding practices. The CVMA strongly advises against feeding pets raw poultry or raw meat products, including turkey, due to the risk of avian influenza and other harmful bacteria or pathogens that could be present. Instead, opt for thoroughly cooked meats, which eliminates the risk of contamination and ensures your pet receives the nutrition they need without the danger of infection.
Additionally, practicing good hygiene while preparing meals—such as thoroughly washing hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw meat—can prevent cross-contamination and further protect your pets.
Conclusion
Pet owners should take the CVMA’s warning about raw turkey seriously. The risks posed by avian influenza are significant, and feeding pets raw poultry can lead to severe illness and even death. Always prioritize your pet's health by avoiding raw meat products and offering them well-cooked , prescribed pet food instead. By doing so, you help ensure that your furry family members stay safe and healthy, especially during the holiday season when we all gather around the table.
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