The pet food industry was recently shaken by a nationwide recall issued by Northwest Naturals, a Portland-based company known for its raw pet food products. The recall was initiated after a tragic incident in Oregon, where a house cat died after consuming contaminated food. This article delves into the details of the recall, the potential risks associated with bird flu in pet food, and the measures taken by Northwest Naturals and relevant authorities to address the situation.
Bird Flu Contamination Leads to Cat Food Recall
Northwest Naturals, a subsidiary of Morasch Meats, announced the voluntary recall on December 24th, 2024. The recall specifically affects the company’s 2-pound Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food. Laboratory testing revealed that a specific batch of this product tested positive for the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus, specifically the H5N1 strain. This strain of bird flu is known to be highly contagious and potentially fatal to birds, and it can also pose a risk to other animals, including cats.
The company’s official statement confirmed the connection between the contaminated pet food and the feline fatality: “Consumption of raw or uncooked pet food contaminated with HPAI can cause illness in animals. To date, one case of illness in a domestic cat has been reported in connection with this issue.” This tragic incident underscores the importance of rigorous quality control measures in the pet food industry and highlights the potential dangers of raw pet food diets.
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Identifying and Disposing of Recalled Products
The recall applies to Northwest Naturals Feline Turkey Recipe products with “best if used by” dates falling between May 21, 2026, and June 23, 2026. Consumers who have purchased products within this date range are strongly urged to immediately discard the food and contact their retailer for a full refund. Northwest Naturals has provided contact information for customer inquiries, including an email address ([email protected]) and a phone number (866-637-1872).
The affected batch of cat food was distributed widely across the United States and even reached parts of Canada. Distributors in Arizona, California, Colorado, Rhode Island, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Washington carried the potentially contaminated product. Additionally, the product was distributed in British Columbia, Canada. This wide distribution underscores the urgency of the recall and the importance of reaching as many consumers as possible.
Collaborative Investigation and Confirmation of H5N1
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA). The ODA, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Oregon State University, conducted extensive laboratory testing. These tests confirmed that the deceased cat contracted the H5N1 strain of bird flu after consuming the contaminated Northwest Naturals pet food. Furthermore, genetic sequencing revealed an exact match between the virus found in the cat and the virus present in the recalled pet food.
Dr. Ryan Scholz, ODA State Veterinarian, stated definitively, “We are confident that this cat contracted H5N1 by eating the Northwest Naturals raw and frozen pet food.” He emphasized that the cat was strictly indoors and had no other potential exposure to the virus, further solidifying the link between the pet food and the feline’s death. This conclusive evidence highlights the importance of scientific investigation in confirming the source of contamination and protecting both animal and human health.
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Monitoring Human Health and Minimizing Risk
While the primary concern is for animal health, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and local public health officials are taking precautionary measures. Household members who had close contact with the infected cat are being monitored for flu-like symptoms. To date, no human cases of bird flu have been linked to this incident. The risk of transmission to humans from H5N1 remains low in Oregon, but vigilance and monitoring are crucial.
The rapid response and collaboration between Northwest Naturals, the ODA, the USDA, and the OHA demonstrate a commitment to public health and safety. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible pet food practices and the potential risks associated with raw pet food diets. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about pet food recalls and to follow safety guidelines when handling and preparing pet food.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Recall
What should I do if I have the recalled cat food?
Immediately discard the product and contact the retailer where you purchased it for a full refund. Do not feed the recalled food to your cat.
What are the symptoms of bird flu in cats?
Symptoms can vary but may include lethargy, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, difficulty breathing, and nasal discharge. If your cat exhibits any of these symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately.
Can humans get bird flu from cats?
The risk of transmission from cats to humans is low, but it is possible. Practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands after handling pet food or cleaning litter boxes.
Is raw pet food safe for my cat?
Raw pet food diets carry inherent risks, including exposure to bacteria and viruses like Salmonella and H5N1. Consult with your veterinarian to discuss the risks and benefits of raw feeding for your cat.
Where can I get more information about the recall?
Contact Northwest Naturals directly at [email protected] or 866-637-1872. You can also find information on the ODA and USDA websites.
