Bird flu backyard chickens at risk – vet warns of cat deaths

bird flu backyard chickens: emerging threat to pets

Veterinary virologist Dr. Maya Patel says the bird flu backyard chickens outbreak, caused by the H5N1 strain, is sweeping coastal colonies, now spotted in New South Wales and Victoria (↑ 2 states). The virus, once confined to wild waterfowl, has leapt to backyard chickens, causing a ↓ 30% fatality rate within days.

“Even domestic cats can contract the disease after hunting infected birds,” she warns.

Recent surveillance by Reuters confirmed the pathogen in seabird carcasses, prompting authorities to issue biosecurity alerts. Owners are urged to keep coops sealed, avoid feeding raw poultry, and monitor feline companions for respiratory signs. For detailed guidance, see the BBC health brief.

Correction: An earlier dispatch misstated the number of Australian states affected.