American pet food sold in B.C. recalled after a cat died of bird flu

Northwest Naturals, a Portland, Ore.-based pet food company, has issued a recall for a batch of its two-pound (one kilogram) Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food after a cat that died of H5N1 avian influenza was linked to the product.

The recalled pet food was distributed in British Columbia and several American states, including Oregon, Washington, and California. The affected products have best before dates between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026, according to a press release from the company.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed that a house cat in Washington County, Ore., became infected with H5N1 and subsequently died after consuming the recalled pet food, as stated in a press release by the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA).

“We are confident that this cat contracted H5N1 by eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food,” said ODA State Veterinarian Ryan Scholz. “This cat was strictly an indoor cat and was not exposed to the virus in its environment.”

As of Thursday, the Oregon Health Authority reported no human cases of infection related to this pet food, emphasizing that the risk of transmission to humans remains low. However, Health Canada has not issued a recall for the product as of yet.

The H5N1 strain of avian influenza is primarily found in birds, but cases have been reported in mammals such as cattle, goats, and even a pig in recent years. While human infections are rare, symptoms can vary in severity, potentially leading to pneumonia or organ failure, according to Health Canada.

To prevent the spread of avian influenza, Health Canada advises avoiding contact with wild birds and infected animals, as well as washing hands after being in areas where birds and wildlife nest. It is also recommended to keep pets away from birds, wildlife, and their feces.

In a separate incident, health officials in British Columbia reported a teenager in critical condition after contracting the virus. While the source of infection remains unclear, the B.C. Centre for Disease Control found no additional cases or evidence of human-to-human transmission during their investigation.

As the investigation continues, pet owners are urged to check their inventory for the recalled Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food and dispose of it properly to prevent any potential risks to their pets.