TimberCreek Veterinary Hospital in Manhattan reported that two cats from Pottawatomie County tested positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI). Veterinarian Dr. Kellie Lewis cautioned that while mammals, including cattle and goats, are susceptible, cats face a higher risk of severe illness.
The hospital emphasized that outdoor cats, cats fed raw meat or unpasteurized milk, and cats exposed to infected livestock are most vulnerable. The virus progresses quickly in cats, making immediate veterinary care critical if symptoms appear.
Signs include:
- Appetite loss
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Heavy eye and nasal discharge
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe neurological symptoms like seizures and blindness.
Residents are advised to keep cats indoors, feed them commercial diets, and wear protective gear when handling dead birds. Double-bagging and properly disposing of bird carcasses can reduce transmission risk.
The warning comes as the CDC continues monitoring bird flu cases in animals and humans. Recently, a child in California contracted the virus, and outbreaks among dairy cows and workers have sparked national concern. With HPAI spreading in wildlife and livestock, veterinarians urge vigilance to protect pets from exposure.
