āMost bird flu infections in California animals have been found in poultry, such as chickens, turkeys and gāāāeese. Since September 2024, bird flu has been detected in dairy cow herds in the California. Dogs, cats, and other pets may become infected with bird flu from hunting, eating, or coming into contact with wild birds or poultry or their environments. Pets or other animals can also contractā bird flu from drinking raw milk or eating other raw pet food or dairy products. Pets, other animals, chickens and other birds may become infected from something in their environment, such as droppings from infected wild birds and rodents or bird flu virus on tainted items such as clothing. Cats seem to be more likely to get bird flu viruses. Cats from multiple states have become very ill and died from bird flu.
Signs of infection in poultry, backyard flocks and pet birds may include:
- Sudden death with no prior signs
- Low energy or appetite
- Purple discoloration or swelling of various body parts
- Reduced egg production or soft-shelled/misshapen eggs
- Nasal discharge, coughing or sneezing
- Lack of coordination
- Diarrhea
Signs of infection in dairy cows may include:
- Reduced milk production
- Thicker, concentrated, colostrumālike milk
- A decrease in feed consumption
- Abnormal, tacky or loose feces
- Lethargy
- Dehydration
- Feverāā
Signs of infection in cats and dogs may include:
- Neurologic signs, like tremors, seizures, incoordination, or blindness
- Difficulty breathing
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Low appetite
- Reddened or inflamed eyes
- Discharge from the eyes and nose
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice any signs of bird flu in your pets or other animals. Call the California Department of Food and Agriculture Animal Health Branch's sick bird hotline at 866-922-BIRD (2473) if you have sick birds.