Cat Food Recall Issued After Bird Flu Linked to Cat’s Death

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Northwest Naturals is recalling a line of its raw and frozen cat food after authorities confirmed that a contaminated batch caused the death of a house cat in Oregon’s Washington County. The affected product tested positive for the H5N1 bird flu virus, prompting a nationwide recall.

Details of the Recall

The recall applies to two-pound bags of Northwest Naturals’ Feline Turkey Recipe with a best-by date between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. Consumers are urged to stop using the product immediately and return it to the store for a refund.

The product is distributed nationwide across 12 U.S. states—Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington—and in British Columbia, Canada.

Bird Flu and the Cat’s Death

Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) officials confirmed the cat’s death was caused by H5N1 bird flu after the feline consumed the contaminated cat food. Dr. Ryan Scholz, ODA State Veterinarian, stated, “This cat was strictly an indoor cat; it was not exposed to the virus in its environment, and results from the genome sequencing confirmed that the virus recovered from the raw pet food and infected cat were exact matches.”

The case highlights the risks associated with feeding pets raw meat, as raw food diets can introduce serious pathogens, including bird flu.

Growing Concerns Over Bird Flu

The recall comes amid a broader rise in bird flu cases across the U.S., which have already led to human infections, livestock impacts, and even a state of emergency in California. The virus’s spread among animals has raised concerns about food safety and public health.

What Customers Should Do

Northwest Naturals advises customers who purchased the recalled product to return it to the store of purchase for a refund. Concerned pet owners are also encouraged to contact their veterinarian if they notice symptoms of illness in their pets.

A Reminder About Raw Food Risks

The ODA emphasizes that feeding pets raw meat can lead to severe illness, as contaminated food is a potential vector for dangerous pathogens. This case serves as a reminder to prioritize pet safety and choose food options that minimize health risks.

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