Cat Dies After Eating Contaminated Pet Food: What Every Pet Owner Needs to Know!

A heartbreaking incident in Oregon has left pet owners concerned after a cat tragically passed away from bird flu after eating contaminated raw pet food. The food in question, Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey Recipe, was recalled nationwide after it tested positive for the H5N1 bird flu virus. The cat, which was strictly an indoor pet, had no exposure to the virus outside its home, leading health authorities to confirm that the source of infection was the contaminated pet food.

The Recalled Product
The affected pet food is sold in two-pound plastic bags marked with “best if used by” dates of May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. The product was distributed across 12 states, including Arizona, California, Florida, and Michigan, as well as Canada’s British Columbia. If you have purchased this specific product, you should dispose of it immediately and contact the store where it was purchased for a full refund.

No Human Cases, But Vigilance is Key
While no human cases of bird flu have been linked to this incident, those who had contact with the infected cat are being closely monitored for flu symptoms. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 60 people across the U.S. have tested positive for the virus, but most cases have been mild. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks and stay informed.

Protecting Your Pets
This tragedy highlights the importance of paying attention to pet food recalls, especially with raw food products. While this is an isolated case, pet owners should be cautious and make sure their pets are not consuming any recalled products. Always store pet food properly, follow recall alerts, and ensure your pets’ food is safe.

If you purchased any of the recalled Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey Recipe, please take immediate action to dispose of it. If you have questions about the recall or your pet’s safety, reach out to your veterinarian.

Keeping your pets safe means staying up-to-date with the latest health and safety alerts, and this incident is a reminder to be vigilant with what your pets eat.