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.
Tight cattle supplies favor poultry and pork while keeping beef margins under pressure.
February 12, 2026 06:00 AM
·
American Farmland Trust shares guidance, research, and policy solutions to help farmers navigate the growing threat of PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” contaminating U.S. farmland.
February 11, 2026 02:24 PM
·
Higher livestock prices reflect resilient demand, even as disease and herd shifts reshape 2026 supply expectations.
February 10, 2026 04:11 PM
·
Dr. Kelly Bruns from the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture discusses how the college prepares students for careers in agriculture.
February 10, 2026 02:27 PM
·
RFD NEWS Correspondent Frank McCaffrey was in Mission, Texas, where state and federal officials addressed growers and producers at a round table event hosted at a citrus grower’s facility. He shows us how welcome news was all around.
February 10, 2026 12:05 PM
·
New Holland VP Ryan Schaefer shares insights into the brand’s legacy and innovations that support U.S. cattle producers.
February 09, 2026 02:46 PM
·
