Avian Flu & Pet Food Safety 2025: Info for Cat & Dog Owners

Over the past year, cases of avian influenza (H5N1) have been on the rise. Not just in birds, but in an increasing range of mammals across the US, including domestic pets. This has sparked a wave of concern among cat and dog owners, especially when it comes to pet food safety¹. 

In particular, pet owners who feed raw diets are re-evaluating their food choices. Many are concerned that uncooked meat could be a potential route of exposure to avian flu. Several recent pet food recalls² have only added to the unease, and as searches for terms like “avian flu raw cat food” surge, one thing is clear: pet parents want answers.

If you’re wondering whether your pet’s food could pose a risk, you’re not alone. The good news? With the right information and precautions, those risks can be minimized. 

This article will walk you through what’s currently known about H5N1 and pet food. It explores how the virus may spread and what regulatory bodies like the FDA are saying. You’ll also find a breakdown of your options, whether you choose to continue feeding raw or prefer to try an alternative.

Ultimately, we’re not here to tell you what to feed your pet. Instead, we’re laying out the facts so you can make informed decisions that feel right for your household. Let’s dive into what you need to know.

Understanding Bird Flu & Pets 🦠

Avian influenza (H5N1), or bird flu, as it’s more commonly known, mainly affects wild and domestic birds. However, this strain has recently made headlines for infecting a surprising range of mammals in the US³ – from dairy cattle and raccoons to skunks, bears, and even dolphins. 

Although the current risk to humans remains low⁴, the ripple effects have reached into the pet world. This raises questions about how the virus might impact our cats and dogs.

What Is Bird Flu, & How Does It Affect Pets? 🤔

Bird flu⁵ is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily targets birds. The H5N1 subtype is of particular concern⁶ due to its severity in some species and its potential to occasionally jump to mammals. 

While it’s still rare in pets, cases are being documented. The mode of transmission is prompting many pet owners to reevaluate how they feed their animals.

🐈 Cats: Particularly Vulnerable to H5N1 

Infected cats are particularly vulnerable to the H5N1 strain⁷. Some have exhibited serious symptoms, including severe respiratory distress, neurological issues like seizures or loss of coordination, and, in some reported cases, death. Multiple outbreaks have been linked to cats consuming raw poultry or unpasteurized raw milk contaminated with the virus.

🐕 Dogs: Less Susceptible but Not Immune

Most reported cases in dogs have been mild, with symptoms like coughing, sneezing, or fever. Still, the presence of the virus in canine populations has sparked concern⁸. Especially given the growing popularity of raw pet diets.

These real-world cases are prompting questions about whether raw food could be a vector for the virus. While no human cases have been linked to pet food to date, the risks to animals, particularly cats, are becoming harder to ignore.

❓ How Can Pets Be Exposed to Bird Flu?

The most likely sources of H5N1 exposure for pets include:

In light of these risks, the FDA has issued guidance cautioning against feeding pets uncooked or unpasteurized animal products. While these aren’t binding regulations, they are meant to reduce the likelihood of transmission, particularly during outbreaks like the one we’re currently seeing.

Pet Food Safety During Bird Flu Outbreaks 🔍

Is Raw Pet Food Safe Right Now? 🥩

Raw feeding has become increasingly popular among pet owners. Many are drawn to the idea of providing minimally processed, “natural” diets. But during a bird flu outbreak, that choice comes with new risks – not only for pets but potentially for people, too.

The current strain of H5N1 doesn't easily infect humans, and to date, no human cases have been linked to pet food. Still, public health experts are watching closely. The virus has shown the ability to mutate and jump species, with 1 confirmed human death in the US in 2024¹⁰.

Each time a virus infects a new species, it gets an opportunity to evolve. This could increase its ability to spread or cause illness. That’s why raw pet food is getting extra scrutiny. Especially when it contains uncooked poultry or unpasteurized dairy, which are potential carriers of the virus.

Why Do Raw Diets Carry More Risk During Outbreaks? ⚠️

The core issue is that most raw pet foods skip heat treatment. That’s typically what kills pathogens like H5N1. Even when alternative methods like freeze-drying or High-Pressure Processing (HPP) are used, the safety margins aren't always clear.

Smarter Sourcing: What to Look For in Raw Pet Food 📋

If you stick with raw feeding, choose products made with human-grade ingredients. These are held to higher sourcing and safety standards than conventional pet-grade foods. Remember that labeling and safety standards for raw pet foods can be inconsistent, especially when it comes to pathogen testing.

Look for brands that:

✅ Use human-grade ingredients

✅ Verify their suppliers

✅ Share their safety protocols transparently

✅ Conduct batch-by-batch pathogen testing

✅ Mention heat treatment or pathogen reduction methods, such as gently cooked, pasteurized, HPP-treated, lightly cooked

High-Pressure Processing & Bird Flu: What We Know 

Some raw pet food companies rely on HPP or irradiation to reduce pathogens without cooking. HPP, in particular, uses cold water pressure to neutralize bacteria while preserving nutrients. 

However, recent guidance from the FDA raises a key concern: There’s not enough evidence to confirm HPP’s effectiveness against H5N1¹¹. Until more research is available, HPP-treated raw foods still carry an element of risk during outbreaks.

What Are Regulators Saying?

In response to recent developments, the FDA has urged pet food manufacturers to re-evaluate the safety of any products using raw or unpasteurized poultry or dairy ingredients¹. Infectious disease experts have also raised concerns about the lack of oversight in the raw pet food industry.

Currently, there’s no standardized definition or federal regulation for “raw” pet food, which means safety practices vary widely by brand. That inconsistency makes it harder for pet owners to make informed decisions. Especially when zoonotic diseases like bird flu are in the mix.

Cooked Alternatives to Raw Feeding ✅🍲

If the recent bird flu outbreak has you rethinking your pet’s raw diet, you’re not alone. While some owners feel confident sticking with raw using strict safety measures, others may prefer to switch to cooked or gently processed foods. 

For Dogs: Try The Farmer’s Dog 🐶

The Farmer’s Dog is a subscription service that offers gently cooked, human-grade meals. This aligns with the FDA’s recommendation to cook animal products during bird flu outbreaks. Here are some of the safety steps it takes:

• Sourced from USDA-inspected suppliers

• Cooked to precise temperatures to kill pathogens

• Backed by a team of food-safety professionals, including a full-time microbiologist

• Packaged and shipped cold for freshness and safety

If you’re looking for peace of mind without sacrificing quality, The Farmer’s Dog is our top recommendation. Check out our roundup of the best human-grade dog food delivery services to see how it compares to other options on quality, pricing, and more. 

For Cats: Consider Smalls or Cooked Alternatives 😺

Cats may be pickier, but they’re also more vulnerable to H5N1. Brands like Smalls offer minimally processed, human-grade recipes, with options like gently cooked or high-quality canned meals. These provide safety and nutrition without the raw risk.

How to Transition Your Pet From a Raw Diet 🔁

Switching diets doesn’t have to be hard. You can transition your cat or dog from raw food to a gently cooked or commercial alternative gradually, supporting their digestion and preferences along the way.

Step-by-Step Transition Tips 🐾

1. Go slow: Start by mixing a small portion of the new food with your pet’s usual raw meals. Gradually increase the amount of cooked or commercial food over 7-10 days. This slow shift helps reduce the risk of digestive upset and gives your pet time to adjust to the new texture and taste.

2. Keep meals consistent: Offer meals at regular times, and avoid switching flavors or brands too quickly during the transition. Familiarity can help reduce stress and increase the likelihood that your pet will accept the new food.

3. Be patient with picky eaters: If your pet is used to raw meat, gently cooked or canned food with a similar texture may be more appealing than dry kibble. Warming the food slightly or adding a spoonful of bone broth (if it's from a safe, cooked source) can also encourage them to try it.

4. Consider multi-pet households: If you’re feeding more than 1 pet, try to transition them around the same time to reduce confusion and prevent one pet from stealing the other's meal. Keep in mind that cats, in particular, may take longer to adjust and might need extra encouragement.

5. Watch for signs of discomfort: Monitor your pet's appetite, energy levels, and stool quality during the transition. Mild changes are normal, but if you notice persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of distress, check in with your vet.

3 Practical Tips for Pet Owners Concerned About Bird Flu 💡

1. Monitor Your Pet’s Health 🩺

Keep an eye on your pet’s behavior and physical condition. Cats are especially vulnerable to severe illness from H5N1, but dogs can show symptoms too. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

2. Reduce Bird Flu Risks at Home 🏠

The risk of bird flu transmission through pet food remains low. However, outbreaks like these serve as a reminder to revisit food safety. The FDA has issued nonbinding recommendations for manufacturers to improve the handling of uncooked ingredients¹. But it’s still up to pet owners to follow safe practices at home.

3. Assess Raw Diets Closely 🕵️

If you feed raw, take a closer look at how your pet’s food is sourced and handled. Cooking raw food at home is a simple step that can significantly reduce the risk of bird flu, without requiring you to change brands or switch away from raw-style feeding entirely. 

If you prefer to stick with commercial raw products, know what to keep an eye out for. Look for brands that use pathogen-reduction methods like High-Pressure Processing (HPP), source from human-grade suppliers, and conduct thorough safety testing.

You may continue with raw feeding or decide to explore alternatives. The key is choosing an option that aligns with your pet’s health needs and your own comfort with the current risk level.

Keep Informed: How To Stay Up To Date 📰

Check in regularly with trusted sources. These include the FDA¹³, AMVA⁹, and CDC¹⁴ for updates on H5N1 outbreaks, pet food recalls, and health advisories. Bird flu guidance can evolve quickly as more is learned about how the virus behaves in different species.

It’s worth noting that the number of confirmed bird flu infections in pets may not reflect the true scale. Testing for H5N1 in domestic animals is limited and costly, and not all veterinarians may report suspected cases. This means some infections likely go undiagnosed or unrecorded, especially in milder cases or in communities without easy access to veterinary labs.

FAQ

Can bird flu be transmitted through food?

Yes, bird flu can potentially be transmitted through raw or undercooked animal products. Cooking pet food to safe temperatures destroys the virus. You can switch to an alternative pet food if you are not comfortable feeding raw foods during an outbreak.

Are freeze-dried foods safe?

Not always. Some freeze-dried pet foods contain raw meat and may not undergo pathogen testing. Without proper labeling and safety measures, they may still pose a risk.

How do I verify a brand’s safety claims?

Check if the brand uses human-grade ingredients, sources from verified suppliers, and performs regular pathogen testing. Look for transparency in safety protocols and third-party audits when possible.

Can dogs get bird flu from eating birds?

Yes, though it's rare. Dogs can contract bird flu by eating infected wild birds or raw poultry. Cases are typically mild, but caution is still advised.

How long does bird flu live on surfaces?

Bird flu can survive on surfaces for hours to days, depending on the material and environment. You can reduce risks in the home by cleaning and disinfecting food prep areas.

Can humans catch bird flu from pet food?

While rare, experts warn that handling contaminated raw pet food could pose a risk. There are no confirmed cases yet, but the situation is being closely monitored.

References 

1. https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/cvm-updates/cat-and-dog-food-manufacturers-required-consider-h5n1-food-safety-plans

2. https://www.avma.org/news/cat-deaths-linked-bird-flu-contaminated-raw-pet-food-sparking-voluntary-recall

3. https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections/mammals

4. https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/index.html

5. https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/index.html

6. https://www.woah.org/en/disease/avian-influenza/

7. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10832898/

8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2828096/

9. https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/animal-health/avian-influenza/avian-influenza-companion-animals

10. https://www.unmc.edu/healthsecurity/transmission/2025/01/07/first-h5-bird-flu-death-reported-in-united-states/

11. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956713516304200

12. https://www.thefarmersdog.com/digest/what-to-know-about-bird-flu-and-pet-food/

13. https://www.fda.gov/

14. https://www.cdc.gov/