If you own small pets, especially cats, be vigilant about possible HPAI infections

High-Path Avian Flu (HPAI) is keeping a lot of veterinarians busy. Oregon’s top animal expert says they are getting more reports of household pets, like cats, coming down with the virus, especially if they spend time outdoors.

A cat in Oregon recently contracted the virus and had to be put down. Officials say the pet had direct contact with wild birds, which authorities believe have been a major spreader of the virus. They remind everyone not to feed wild animals and to be mindful when allowing pets to roam the outdoors.

“There absolutely is a risk to cats who have uncontrolled access to waterfowl, especially wild waterfowl that could be infected by this virus,” said Dr. Ryan Scholz. “In this case, they were full-time outdoor cats living right next to a wildlife refuge.”

Full-grown cats and dogs have a stronger immune system, but Scholz still urges everyone to keep pets away from wild birds and raw meat.

Related Stories
Rancher David Kroa of One Man Ranch joins us to share the story of his remarkable Shorthorn cow, Trish, who is beating the odds.
Cattle imports from Mexico remain stalled amid the New World screwworm outbreak. At the same time, Tyson closures add pressure on Nebraska producers and markets ahead of the USDA’s upcoming Cattle on Feed Report.
Georgia has regained its HPAI-free status after a swift response to October’s detection. Commissioner Tyler Harper urges producers to stay vigilant and maintain biosecurity.
Texas livestock producers face a heightened biosecurity threat as New World screwworm detections in northern Mexico coincide with FDA approval of the first topical treatment.
Dr. Sally DeNotta with the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) provides horse owners with guidance on the recent outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).
Cargill’s commitment to keep plants open helps preserve competition as Tyson removes capacity amid historically tight cattle supplies.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer joined us to break down the recent Fifth Circuit Court decision overturning a prior Tax Court decision on self-employment tax for limited partners, the ruling’s impact on farmers, and potential next steps in Congress.
Americans for Prosperity Arkansas Director Ryan Norris talks energy infrastructure, regulatory reform, and the role of critical minerals in supporting rural America.
Pennsylvania Farm Show scholarship recipient Elizabeth Dice discusses her award, her background in farming, and her path forward in the agriculture industry.
Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain challenges facing agriculture as snow, sleet and ice threaten most of the Eastern U.S.
Agriculture Shows
Farmweek is broadcast from Mississippi, one of the South’s most geographically diverse states. The Magnolia State’s most important resource is its people—and about a fourth of the state’s population hold jobs tied to agriculture.
“DocTalk” with host Dr. Dan Thomson will be teaming up with practitioners around the country to tackle issues with your livestock.
This high-yield corn contest showcases real-life Corn Warriors dealing with elements that every farmer knows well. Get an authentic look at what it takes to compete in a high-yield corn contest, and see who will take the title of Corn King.
As the trusted voice of the U.S. cattle and beef industry, the National Cattlemen Beef Association strives to share timely, relevant news. NCBA’s “Cattlemen to Cattlemen” is the leading TV show for beef producers to receive cattle industry news, education, and information.