The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) and the Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) warn pet owners about the risks of raw pet food after High Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) was confirmed in two cats from different households in Multnomah County, Oregon. Both cats consumed the same brand of raw pet food before becoming severely ill and were euthanized. Testing confirmed HPAI in both the cats and the food samples.
Public Health Alert: Wild Coast Raw Pet Food
- Affected raw pet food was produced by Wild Coast Raw in Olympia, WA.
- WSDA has issued a public health alert regarding certain lots of this brand.
- Action Required: Check lot numbers on Wild Coast Raw products at home. If they match, stop feeding the product to pets immediately.
- For more information, contact the Washington State Department of Agriculture.
HPAI Risks to Pets
- Cats, both domestic and wild, are highly susceptible to HPAI avian influenza.
- Dogs can also contract HPAI, though they are less susceptible than cats.
Lane County Public Health (LCPH) Recommendations
- Avoid feeding pets raw or undercooked meat, freeze-dried diets, treats, or animal products.
- Do not give pets raw (unpasteurized) milk or colostrum.
- Wash hands after handling raw meat or interacting with animals outside your household.
- Change clothing and shoes after exposure to animals or birds before interacting with
your pets.
- Monitor pets for illness and contact a veterinarian if they appear sick.
What to Do If You Suspect HPAI in Your Pet
- Contact your veterinarian if your pet was exposed to raw meat, raw milk, or wild waterfowl.
- Veterinarians must report suspected HPAI cases to the Oregon Department of Agriculture at (503) 986-4711.
Public Health Monitoring
- Individuals exposed to infected animals are monitored for 10 days.
- No human cases of HPAI have been reported after exposure to an infected cat.
For updates, consult the
Oregon Department of Agriculture or
Washington State Department of Agriculture.
Download a flyer with this information.