Protecting pets from H5 bird flu

H5 bird flu primarily affects birds, and the risk to cats and dogs in Victoria is very low.

A small number of infections have been reported in companion animals overseas since this strain of H5 bird flu started circulating the world 6 years ago. These have generally been limited to very few instances of close exposure to infected animals. Close exposure includes eating infected birds.

There is no evidence that companion animals play a role in the spread of H5 bird flu. Internationally, cats appear more susceptible to H5N1 infection than dogs, although infections in companion animals are overall uncommon.

Pet owners are advised to prevent pets from interacting with sick and dead wildlife. This is to protect their pets and to prevent placing stress on wild animals.

Pet owners can help minimise risks to their pets by:

• keeping pets away from wildlife, including preventing cats from roaming and keeping dogs on leads in wildlife areas
• watching for serious illness and contacting your vet if your pet is unwell.

Anyone who finds sick or dead wildlife should avoid contact, record what they see and report it on Agriculture Victoria’s bird flu website or to the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.