A pet food manufacturer has initiated a recall of its raw and frozen cat food products after a batch was found to be contaminated with the highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1). The company, Northwest Naturals, has specifically targeted one batch of its Feline Turkey Recipe, which tested positive for the virus. This action comes after an investigation linked the death of a domestic cat in Washington County, Oregon, to consuming this contaminated food. Authorities have advised consumers to discard any affected products immediately and seek refunds from their point of purchase.

The recall highlights the potential risks associated with feeding raw or uncooked pet food to animals. While cases of H5N1 infection in pets are rare, this incident underscores the importance of vigilance when selecting pet food. The outbreak has also raised broader concerns about the spread of avian influenza, impacting both human and animal health across multiple states.

Understanding the Recall and Its Implications

The recall affects a specific batch of Northwest Naturals' Feline Turkey Recipe, packaged in 2-pound plastic bags with "Best if used by" dates ranging from May 21, 2026, to June 23, 2026. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged to dispose of them immediately due to the risk of illness. The company has assured customers that they can obtain a full refund by contacting the store where they made the purchase. This precautionary measure is essential to prevent further harm to pets and ensure consumer safety.

The Oregon Department of Agriculture confirmed that the death of a house cat in Washington County was directly linked to consuming the contaminated pet food. Dr. Ryan Scholz, the Oregon State Veterinarian, stated that the evidence strongly suggests the cat contracted H5N1 from eating the affected product. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers of avian influenza in pet food and the need for stringent quality control measures in the industry. The recall notice emphasizes that while this is an isolated incident, it underscores the importance of being vigilant about pet food safety.

Preventing Future Incidents and Protecting Pets

To safeguard against similar incidents, pet owners should be aware of the signs of avian influenza in their animals and take preventive measures. Symptoms may include respiratory issues, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If a pet exhibits any of these symptoms, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian promptly. Additionally, owners should carefully check the "Best if used by" dates on pet food packaging and avoid feeding raw or undercooked products unless they are confident of their safety.

The recalled product was distributed nationwide, reaching states such as Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, as well as British Columbia, Canada. Pet owners in these regions should be particularly cautious and verify whether their local stores carry the affected product. Northwest Naturals provides a store locator on its website to help consumers identify retailers that sell their products. By staying informed and proactive, pet owners can protect their animals from potential health risks associated with contaminated food.