Avian Flu & Your Pets: What’s the Risk in the Western Cape?

There have been confirmed cases of Avian Influenza (bird flu) in wild and domestic birds across the Western Cape. Understandably, many pet parents are wondering: can dogs or cats get it too?

✅ What We Know

Avian flu mainly affects wild birds and poultry, but in rare cases, it can spread to some mammals. The good news? Cases in domestic cats and dogs are extremely uncommon.

While some strains (like H5N1) have occasionally infected cats and, even more rarely, dogs, most pets remain unaffected – especially those that stay indoors and don’t hunt or eat wild birds.

⚠️ What Pet Parents Should Do

Even though the risk is very low, it’s still smart to be cautious:

1. Keep pets away from wild birds, carcasses, or areas where birds gather.
2. Don’t feed raw poultry or wild game to your pets.
3. Supervise cats that like to hunt or roam near water or farms.
4. See your vet immediately if your cat or dog shows symptoms like fatigue, loss of appetite, or breathing difficulties.
5. Report any unusual clusters of dead or sick birds to your local authorities.

💚 The Bottom Line

Right now, the risk of avian flu infection in cats and dogs in South Africa remains very low. But staying informed and taking simple precautions helps keep your pets safe and healthy.

If you’re ever unsure, check with your vet.

📚 References

1. Western Cape Government. (2025). Avian Influenza detected in Western Cape: Public urged to stay alert, not alarmed.
   https://www.westerncape.gov.za/agriculture/article/avian-influenza-detected-western-cape-public-urged-stay-alert-not-alarmed
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2025, March 7). Bird Flu in Pets and Other Animals.
   https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/risk-factors/bird-flu-in-pets.html
3. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. (2025). Cats and Dogs – Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (Bird Flu) Resource Center.
   https://www.vet.cornell.edu/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-bird-flu-resource-center/cats-and-dogs
4. MSD Animal Health / Veterinary Manual. (2025, January 24). Avian Influenza: What Pet Owners and Veterinarians Need to Know.
   https://www.msdvetmanual.com/news/editorial/2025/01/24/17/32/avian-influenza-what-pet-owners-and-veterinarians-need-to-know