Highly pathogenic avian flu detected in a cat in southeastern Saskatchewan

The Government of Saskatchewan is advising the public to keep clear of any sick or dead birds after a domestic cat was found to be infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza in the southeastern part of the province.

The provincial government said the cat, which spent time outdoors and thus increased its chances of its exposure to wild birds or contaminated environments, died on April 20 after the quick onset of severe neurological and respiratory symptoms. Testing performed by Prairie Diagnostic Services and the Canadian Food Inspection agency later confirmed the animal was infected with the H5N1 strain of avian influenza.

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While the disease is most commonly associated with wild birds and domestic poultry, the province noted that infections can occur in mammals as well, and the risks are typically higher during birds’ spring migration.

“The risk to the public remains low when people avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds. Members of the public should not touch, feed or handle sick or dead wild birds and exercise caution when dealing with sick animals,” the provincial government said in a statement.

“Pet owners can reduce the risk by keeping cats indoors, keeping dogs on leash, preventing pets from hunting or scavenging wild birds, avoiding contact with sick or dead birds, and not feeding pets raw poultry or raw meat from unknown or potentially contaminated sources.”

If a pet becomes suddenly or severely ill, especially after being outdoors or potentially coming into contact with wild birds, the government advised contacting a veterinarian.

“Signs may include difficulty breathing, coughing, weakness, extreme lethargy, loss of coordination, tremors, seizures, other neurological signs or sudden unexplained death,” the province noted.

“Owners should call the veterinary clinic before bringing in an animal that may have been exposed, so the clinic can take appropriate precautions.”

Anyone who finds a sick or dead wild bird in the province was encouraged to report the finding to Saskatchewan’s environment ministry.