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.
Investigations are now ongoing following a massive explosion and fire at the Koch Foods poultry plant in Fairfield, Ohio, which claimed one life and injured at least three other workers at the plant.
February 17, 2026 03:52 PM
·
The Action Aims to Lower Food Costs for Consumers and Strengthen the Supply Chain
February 17, 2026 11:09 AM
Livestock Conservancy Senior Program Manager Jeannette Beranger explains the upcoming poultry census and ongoing efforts to preserve rare and heritage poultry breeds raised across the U.S.
February 13, 2026 02:20 PM
·
Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller joins us to discuss the cattle herd rebuild, trade concerns, and how ranchers would define “America First” policy priorities.
February 13, 2026 12:50 PM
·
The USDA opened a new sterile fly-dispersal facility at Moore Air Base in South Texas to prevent a potential outbreak of New World screwworm and protect the small U.S. cattle herd.
February 12, 2026 10:47 AM
·
Cuba remains a steady, nearby buyer of U.S. poultry, pork, dairy, and staples, but legal and compliance risks could still affect shipping and payment channels.
February 12, 2026 10:00 AM
·
