Bird flu (H5N1): Should we be taking extra precautions? 🐔🐦‍⬛

Hello everyone, how are you doing today? 😊

After everything we’ve been through with the pandemic, the last thing we want to hear about is another virus. But experts are raising concerns about HPAI (highly pathogenic avian influenza), also known as H5N1 or bird flu.

Bird flu (H5N1) has been spreading rapidly among wild birds, poultry, and even some mammals. While human cases are rare and mild so far, experts are warning that pets, especially cats, could be at risk.

How do people and pets catch it?

• Cats and dogs can contract bird flu by scavenging infected birds or animals. Cats seem especially vulnerable and often don’t survive once infected.
• Raw food diets (including raw meat or raw dairy) could carry the virus, so experts recommend avoiding them for both humans and pets.
• Walking in bird-heavy areas? The virus can survive on surfaces, including soil and water contaminated by infected birds. Cleaning your shoes before coming inside is advised.
• Live poultry markets and backyard flocks have been a major source of outbreaks. If you’re around birds regularly, take precautions.

What can we do to stay safe?
✔️ Keep cats indoors and prevent pets from eating or playing with dead birds.
✔️ Avoid feeding pets raw meat or raw dairy.
✔️ If you find a sick or dead bird, don’t touch it—call local wildlife services instead.
✔️ Wash hands after being outside, especially in parks or bird-heavy areas.
✔️ Get your seasonal flu shot—it helps doctors rule out cases and prevent virus mutations.

What do you think? Do you have outdoor pets, and are you taking any extra precautions?

Have you seen any sick birds or animals in your area?

Does this news make you rethink feeding raw food to pets or walking in bird-heavy areas?

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Let’s talk about how real the risk is and what we can do to protect ourselves and our pets. 💬

Take care,

Somya from the Carenity team 🌼