Three pet owners whose cats got bird flu describe their symptoms and quick declines. As such cases mount, public health experts are warning about raw meat and raw milk.

Summary

Cases of bird flu in domestic cats are rising, with at least 126 U.S. infections since 2022—half in 2025—often linked to raw meat or milk.

The virus spreads quickly in cats and is frequently fatal. Three recent cases tied to raw poultry and unpasteurized milk led to two lawsuits and multiple pet food recalls.

Experts warn the virus could mutate and pose greater human risk.

Though no cat-to-human transmission has been confirmed, health officials urge caution with raw pet diets and stress the need for better surveillance.