Can Bird Flu Spread to Cats and Dogs?

Bird flu, also known as avian influenza, is no longer just a concern for birds — it's now affecting cats and dogs too.In this video, Dr. Insoo Hyun explains how the virus is spreading from wild birds to pets, what symptoms to watch for, and how to protect your animals at home.

According to the CDC, the H5N1 strain of bird flu has been spreading rapidly through wild bird populations and poultry farms across the U.S. As of Spring 2025, there have been documented cases of domestic pets contracting the virus, likely through contact with infected bird droppings, saliva, or nasal secretions.

Symptoms in pets may include:

• Coughing or breathing trouble
• Unusual fatigue or lethargy
• General respiratory illness

Since there are no approved bird flu vaccines for cats or dogs, prevention is your best defense.

How to Protect Your Pets:

• Don’t let dogs or cats hunt birds
• Avoid areas with waterfowl (like ponds/lakes)
• Clean pet bowls, toys, and bedding regularly
• Keep pets indoors in high-risk areas

If you live in a rural area or near wildlife, it's especially important to stay alert.