U.S. pet food sold in B.C. recalled over bird flu infection

Nationwide Pet Food Recall After Cat Death Linked to Bird Flu

Northwest Naturals, a pet food company based in Portland, Oregon, has issued a nationwide voluntary recall after one of its products tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, commonly known as bird flu. This action comes in response to the death of a house cat in Washington County, Oregon, which was confirmed to have contracted the H5N1 virus after consuming the affected pet food.

Product Details:

The recall applies to the following product:

• Product Name: Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food

• Packaging: Two-pound plastic bags

• Best-By Dates: Between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026

The affected batch was distributed across multiple states, including California, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon, as well as in British Columbia, Canada.

Incident Overview:

The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) confirmed in a statement that the infected cat consumed the recalled pet food and later succumbed to the virus. Testing identified the presence of HPAI in the product, prompting the company to initiate the recall and alert consumers nationwide.

Recommendations for Pet Owners:

Pet owners are urged to take the following precautions:

1. Check Your Supplies: Inspect your pet food for the affected product details. If you find a match, immediately stop using it.

2. Dispose Safely: Dispose of the product in a sealed container to prevent wildlife or other animals from coming into contact with it.

3. Sanitize: Clean any surfaces, utensils, or storage areas that may have been in contact with the recalled product to reduce the risk of contamination.

Symptoms to Watch For:

Pet owners should monitor their animals for signs of illness, such as:

• Lethargy

• Loss of appetite

• Difficulty breathing

• Nasal discharge or sneezing

If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately and inform them of potential exposure to H5N1.

Company Statement:

Northwest Naturals emphasized its commitment to consumer and pet safety, stating: “We are working closely with regulatory authorities to address this issue and ensure the safety of our products. We urge all customers to check their purchases and follow the recall instructions provided.”

Consumer Support:

For further information about the recall or to request a refund, consumers can contact Northwest Naturals directly through their website or customer service hotline.

Broader Implications:

This incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols in the pet food industry to prevent such occurrences. Pet owners are reminded to stay informed about recalls and to report any adverse effects linked to pet food products promptly.

Final Note:

While the risk to humans from handling or disposing of the recalled product is considered low, caution is advised. Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling pet food or feeding animals.