The incident in Oregon, in which a house cat died, resulted in the recalling of a specific lot of raw cat food contaminated with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) or, more generally known as bird flu. The contaminated product, a 2-pound Northwest Naturals’ Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food, has been directly linked with the cat’s death and thus is of great concern to pet owners and health officials alike.
Details of the recalled product
The recalled cat food is packaged in 2-pound plastic bags and can be identified by the “Best if used by” dates of 05/21/26 B10 and 06/23/2026 B1. These products were distributed across multiple states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington, as well as in British Columbia, Canada.
Incident leading to the recall
A house cat in Washington County, Ore., became ill and died after eating the contaminated raw pet food in late December 2024. Testing by the US Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratories and the Oregon Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory at Oregon State University confirmed that the cat had the H5N1 strain of HPAI. Genetic typing proved the virus isolated from the cat to be identical with that found in the pet food, and thereby contaminated food as the source of infection was firmly established. Dr. Ryan Scholz, State Veterinarian for the Oregon Department of Agriculture said, “We feel certain that this cat got H5N1 by consuming Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food.” He added, “The cat in this case is a strictly indoor animal, so all risk factors point to diet as the point of exposure to the virus.”
Distribution and retail locations
The adulterated cat food was distributed nationwide through distributors in several states and in British Columbia, Canada. In Ohio, the product was sold at four locations, including two in Cuyahoga County. It was distributed to Hollywood Feed locations along Chagrin Boulevard in Woodmere and East Washington Street in Chagrin Falls. Other Ohio retailers that sold the product are Friendly Paws Pet Supplies & Grooming in Athens and Mutts & Co. in Columbus.
Consumer directions
Consumers who have purchased the recalled product should stop feeding it to their cats and safely discard it. Consumers are directed to call the retailer of purchase for a full refund. Customers who have further questions or would like additional information may call Northwest Naturals directly at info@nw-naturals.net or by phone at 866-637-1872, Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM PST.
Health implications and monitoring
The Oregon Health Authority, along with local public health officials, is monitoring people who came into contact with the dead cat for symptoms of flu. No human illnesses with HPAI associated with this incident have been detected to date, and the threat to human health from this single incident remains low. However, even as that assurance is there, health experts are still not letting their guards down to warn pet owners to be keen.
Preventive measures among pet owners
The following precautions are advisable to avoid or reduce the risk of transmission of HPAI:
- Avoid feeding raw poultry products: Owners should not feed their pets raw or undercooked poultry products, as these might contain the virus of HPAI.
- Monitor health of pet animals: Be observant for any signs of illness in pets, loss of appetite, lethargy, respiratory distress, or other symptoms unusual in animals.
- Consult a veterinarian: Pets showing any signs of illness, especially subsequent to feeding raw poultry products, should be taken to a veterinarian as soon as possible.
- Practice good hygiene: After handling pet food, wash hands thoroughly, and clean up feeding areas to prevent any potential contamination.
Company response and ongoing investigation
Northwest Naturals has reiterated their commitment to continued safety and quality in its products. The company said in a statement Friday that it is cooperating with ODA, the FDA, and other regulatory agencies in their ongoing examination into the original contamination and attempts to prevent future happenings. More information for both consumer questions and periodic updates can also be found directly on their company website in a dedicated FAQ web page.
