H5N1 HPAI In Domestic Cat in Oregon and Raw Pet Food Recall

January 6, 2025

Click Here For a downloadable version of this letter from the Office of the Chief Veterinarian

To: Veterinarians and Pet Stores in British Columbia

Date: January 6, 2025

Subject: H5N1 HPAI In Domestic Cat in Oregon and Raw Pet Food Recall

We are writing to inform you of the recall of Northwest Naturals brand 2lb Feline Turkey Recipe raw
& frozen pet food, following the confirmation of H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a
domestic cat on December 24, 2024. This cat, an indoor-only pet from Washington County, Oregon,
died after consuming this raw pet food. PCR testing and whole genome sequencing confirmed the
cat’s infection was linked to frozen raw cat food.

Recalled Product Details:
• Product: Northwest Natural 2lb Feline Turkey Recipe
• Best by Dates: 5/21/26 B10 and 06/23/26 B1
• Distribution: Sold in British Columbia and 12 US states

We strongly recommend that veterinary clinics and pet stores display recall information for clients
and educate pet owners about the recall. Raw pet food may expose pets, and indirectly humans, to
harmful pathogens, including HPAI, Salmonella, and E. coli. These pathogens pose risks to both
animal and human health, particularly in homes with immunocompromised individuals.

Resources:

CVMA Statement: Safety of Raw Meat-Based Pet Food Products | Canadian Veterinary Medical
Association

BC Ministry of Agriculture: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agricultureseafood/animals-and-crops/animal-health/reportable-notifiable-diseases/avian-influenza-ai

Canadian Food Inspection Agency:
Poultry: https://inspection.canada.ca/en/animal-health/terrestrialanimals/diseases/reportable/avian-influenza

Dairy: Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in cattle: Guidance for private veterinarians -
inspection.canada.ca

Public Health: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/avian-influenzah5n1/prevention-risks.html