ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. (WCAX) – Domestic cats are capturing bird influenza in some states, and as the nation continues to handle poultry illness, regional veterinarians state it may be a good concept to keep an additional close eye on your feline as the weather condition warms up.
Bird influenza primarily contaminates wild, migratory, water birds like geese and ducks along with domestic poultry like chickens. But the CDC says can result in severe health problem and even death in cats that can be found in contact with ill or dead birds.
Since some cats spend a great deal of time outside connecting with — and consuming — birds, vets state they have actually increased possibilities for direct exposure. “They are hunters, and so when they can hunt, that’s a normal activity for them. If your cat goes outside, it likely is hunting,” said Dr. Erin Forbes with Mountain View Animal Hospital in Essex Junction.
Despite the spread of H5N1 — the most recent stress of bird influenza in our location — Vermont Fish and Wildlife says they haven’t seen information recommending cat deaths from the infection, however they suggest keeping cats inside your home.
But Forbes says that choice isn’t so easy for lots of owners.”It’s a really nuanced conversation. A great deal of cats are a lot better when they go outdoors and their lifestyle is much better. It’s in fact truly approximately a lot of owners to type of weigh the threats of what you’re more comfy with,” she said.
For those who choose to keep letting their cats out, Forbes provides some pointers to help discourage them from possibly contaminated wild birds. “Make sure your cat is well fed at home and has all that stuff at home — just so they you know it might hunt a little less. And the other thing is making sure you check your cat’s fecal samples. So, bringing stool samples to the vet every six months to make sure they’re not getting parasites,” she said.
And veterinarians state if you think your family pet has actually been exposed to contaminated birds or poultry, look for indications of health problem and take them in as quickly as you see the indications. “If your cat’s acting off, your kitten’s acting off, definitely should be seen, because the longer you wait, the worse they can get and the sicker they can get,” Forbes said.
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