Bird Flu now affecting pets?
Bird Flu Outbreak: What You Need to Know and How It Could Affect Your Pet
Currently, there’s a Bird Flu outbreak spreading across North America and other parts of the world. While the virus primarily affects birds—especially chickens and wild birds—there have been instances where cats, some dogs, and even humans have been affected. In fact, someone in my area is currently in the hospital due to serious complications from the Bird Flu.
Should You Be Concerned for Your Pet?
While it is very unlikely that the Bird Flu will ever affect your pet, it’s always good to be aware of any potential risks, especially if your pet exhibits flu-like symptoms. If your dog or cat does show signs of illness, there is a supplement I recommend that can help support their health.
The Power of Quercetin
Quercetin is a flavonoid antioxidant found in many plant-based foods such as leafy greens, tomatoes, berries, broccoli, apples, and red onions. Technically, it’s considered a plant pigment and plays a vital role in protecting cells from damage.
Multiple studies have shown that Quercetin can be beneficial for respiratory health, making it a great supplement to have on hand if your pet is struggling with any type of respiratory issue.
Try Dr. Jones’ BIOACTIVE Quercetin for Dogs and Cats
I’m excited to share that we now have our own Quercetin supplement specifically designed for dogs and cats. It’s formulated to help support your pet’s respiratory health and overall well-being.
You can try it now:
Stay proactive and support your pet’s health with the right supplements, especially during times when flu outbreaks are in the news.
Bird Flu Outbreak Affecting Pets: What You Need to Know
By Dr. Andrew Jones, DVM
While bird flu viruses primarily spread among wild migratory waterfowl and domestic poultry, there are some cases where these viruses can affect other animals, including our pets. Specifically, H5N1 bird flu viruses have been found in domestic animals like cats, dogs, and even goats and cows during various outbreaks over the years.
Bird Flu in Pets: A Growing Concern
Bird flu outbreaks have occurred in various locations, including Thailand in 2004, Northern Germany in 2006, and Poland and South Korea in 2023. Cases have also been reported in North America, with domestic animals such as cats becoming infected after drinking contaminated milk. In these cases, cats and dogs that venture outdoors and potentially consume sick or dead birds or come into contact with contaminated environments are at risk.
Although it is rare for humans to contract bird flu directly from their pets, it is still possible. For example, in 2016, a veterinarian in New York City contracted bird flu from prolonged exposure to sick cats without proper protective measures.
Current Situation: Human Cases of H5N1
Recently, a person in British Columbia, Canada, was diagnosed with H5N1 bird flu, despite having no known contact with poultry. This highlights the importance of staying vigilant and monitoring both human and animal health.
Signs of Bird Flu in Pets
If your pet shows any signs of illness and has had potential exposure to sick or dead birds, it’s important to closely monitor for symptoms of bird flu infection. While cats are generally more susceptible to the virus than dogs, both species can exhibit similar symptoms, which may include:
- Fever (above 102.5°F or 39°C)
- Lethargy and low energy
- Loss of appetite
- Reddened or inflamed eyes
- Discharge from the eyes and nose
- Difficulty breathing
- Neurological symptoms, including tremors, seizures, incoordination, or blindness
If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. In severe cases, infected pets may succumb to the illness.
Diagnosis and Testing
Because the symptoms of bird flu in pets overlap with common respiratory diseases, a veterinarian will likely need to run tests to confirm the cause. Be sure to inform your vet if your pet has consumed a dead bird or unpasteurized milk, as these can be key factors in exposure to the virus.
Can Bird Flu Affect Pets?
Like the flu in humans, most dogs and cats who contract bird flu will only show mild symptoms and recover with simple supportive care. However, bird flu is a virus that can mutate, making it more concerning as it affects different animal species, such as cows.
During an outbreak that involved dairy cows infected with bird flu, over 40 cats contracted the virus by drinking unpasteurized milk contaminated with H5N1 virus particles, and many of them did not survive. This illustrates the potential risks pets face when exposed to contaminated food sources.
How to Strengthen Your Pet’s Immune System
The best way to protect your pet is to ensure their immune system is strong. A good, nutritious diet and high-quality supplements can help support immune function. I recommend the following supplements to help your pet ward off illness:
1. Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)
A high-quality fish or krill oil supplement, rich in EPA and DHA, can boost immune function. I recommend 1000mg per 50 lbs of body weight daily. This is what I give to my own dog, Tula!
2. Probiotics
A multi-strain, high-CFU probiotic can significantly improve your pet’s immune response, making it more resilient to infections. I recommend 1 billion CFU per 10 lbs of body weight daily.
3. Colostrum
Known for its immune-supportive properties, colostrum is highly beneficial for overall health. I recommend 100mg per 10 lbs of body weight daily.
4. Propolis
Propolis, or bee glue, is a natural substance produced by honeybees that has shown to help respiratory diseases, including flu. Studies back its effectiveness and safety. I recommend 100mg per 10 lbs of body weight daily.
Try Dr. Jones’ BIOACTIVE Quercetin for Dogs and Cats
I’m excited to share that we now have our own Quercetin supplement specifically designed for dogs and cats. It’s formulated to help support your pet’s respiratory health and overall well-being.
You can try it now:
5. Quercetin
This bioflavonoid has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great choice for preventing or treating respiratory diseases. Studies suggest it may help prevent avian influenza (AIV) in poultry, and it could potentially offer the same benefits to your pets. I recommend 50mg per 15 lbs of body weight daily of our Dr. Jones’ Ultimate Bioactive Quercetin for Dogs and Cats.
Conclusion: Prevention is Key
By strengthening your pet’s immune system and being vigilant about their health, you can reduce the risk of bird flu infections. Stay informed, and always consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your pet may have been exposed to the virus. Together, we can keep our pets safe during this challenging time.
