Raw Milk and Pet Food Awareness for Veterinarians
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is alerting Wisconsin pet owners to the risk involved in feeding pet food containing raw milk and raw ingredients to pets. Veterinarians should work with their clients to assess risks associated with feeding pet food with raw ingredients and encourage feeding practices that minimize the risk of disease. With seasonal migrations of wild birds, recent detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI/H5N1) in poultry, and Wisconsin’s first detection of HPAI in a dairy herd, producers and pet owners should be aware of the risks associated with HPAI.
There have been multiple recalls of raw milk and raw ingredient pet foods following the deaths of multiple cats after contracting HPAI, commonly called bird flu, associated with consumption of these products. Additionally, several indoor cats from California have died after contracting bird flu following consumption of raw cow’s milk. FDA recently published a reminder to pet food makers that raw ingredients pose a risk of exposures to H5N1.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), “Since the U.S. outbreak of HPAI in dairy cattle began in March 2024, dozens of cats are known to have contracted the virus. This includes barn and feral cats, indoor cats, and big cats in zoos and in the wild.” HPAI continues to circulate in both wild and domestic birds in North America since December 2021. Since that time, HPAI has also affected other species, including mammalian species. DATCP continues to work with USDA to conduct testing for HPAI encourage biosecurity and provide resources to producers.
What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)?
HPAI is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects birds and poultry. It is caused by influenza type A viruses, and the disease severity varies depending on the strain and species affected.
HPAI is resistant in nature and can survive for long periods of time, even in low temperatures. This allows for easy transmission to occur through direct contact with infected birds, contaminated surfaces, feed, water, and equipment, or indirect contact with contaminated environments, people, and vehicles. Risk factors for infection of pets includes consumption of raw pet food and unpasteurized milk, interactions or consumption of wild birds, and exposure to susceptible poultry and livestock.
Animals Affected by HPAI:
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Birds and Poultry: Chickens, turkeys, ducks, geese, and pheasants are highly susceptible to HPAI, which can spread rapidly and cause severe illness or death.
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Wild Birds: Migratory waterfowl can carry the virus without showing symptoms, spreading it to domestic animals.
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Mammals: HPAI can also infect mammals, including domestic cats, dogs, cows, pigs, and big cats, usually due to exposure to infected birds or contaminated food or environments.
Why Should Veterinarians Be Concerned?
With HPAI cases seen nationally, seasonal migrations of wild birds, recent detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI/H5N1) in poultry, and Wisconsin’s first detection of HPAI in a dairy herd, it is crucial for all veterinarians to be aware of the risks. The following are key points to remember from DATCP.
Health Risks
Raw milk and uncooked meat can carry harmful pathogens such as Salmonella, Listeria, E. coli, and HPAI. These pathogens can cause severe illness in pets and humans, posing significant health risks.
Disease Prevention
Veterinarians can help prevent the spread of diseases and protect the health of pets and their owners. Encourage your staff and clients to follow these disease prevention methods:
- Ensure all animal food products are properly cooked and pasteurized.
- Wash hands before and after handling pet food, as well as utensils and surfaces that have come in contact with food.
- Clean and disinfect food and water bowls regularly with pet-safe disinfectants.
- Avoid cross-contamination by storing pet food separately from other food products.
- Follow storage guidelines and keep pet food in sealed containers, protected from moisture and pests.
Safety Standards
- Adhering to recommended safety standards and guidelines for pet food helps maintain a high level of care and responsibility.
- Veterinarians should remain aware of areas with positive HPAI reports.
- Always practice good biosecurity.
- Utilize your isolation plan in the case of sick animals. If you don’t have an isolation plan, now is a good time to think about one.
- Always utilize appropriate level of personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Be aware of alternative food processing methods that do not use heat such as freeze-dried foods and treats. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated effectiveness of these methods on viral pathogens such as HPAI/H5N1 is unknown at this time.
- Promoting the use of safe, processed food products supports pet health overall and reinforces the role of veterinarians as advocates for animal well-being.
Resources for Veterinarians
To assist in staying informed and prepared, the following valuable resources are available:
Vigilance and proactive measures are vital in preventing the spread of this dangerous disease. Thank you for your dedication to keeping animals and communities safe.
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