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.
Representative Henry Cuellar (D-TX), who sits on the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, spoke exclusively with RFD NEWS about what Congress is doing to address screwworm concerns, including funding for a sterile fly production facility in Mexico.
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HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy calls on cattle producers to retain breeding cows while Ivomec receives emergency authorization to prevent New World screwworm.
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Jones Hamilton Company shares insights on herd health, efficiency, and innovation for cattle producers this year at NCBA CattleCon in Nashville.
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Strong seasonal demand and manageable production growth continue to support poultry markets.
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Global pork production is expected to rise in the first half of 2026, despite trade volatility stemming from shifting import policies and swine disease pressures.
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Tennessee State Veterinarian Dr. Samantha Batey joined us with the latest on biosecurity efforts and the state’s new “Know Before You Show” initiative.
February 02, 2026 12:29 PM
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Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller discusses the state’s latest efforts to prevent the New World screwworm from reaching Texas.
February 02, 2026 12:22 PM
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A rapidly intensifying winter storm is expected to develop into a bomb cyclone this weekend, affecting the Southeast, southern Virginia, and potentially parts of the mid‑Atlantic and New England.
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Early indications suggest the U.S. cattle industry may be nearing the end of its liquidation phase. Oklahoma State University livestock economist Dr. Derrell Peel says the industry could be at or near the cyclical low.
January 29, 2026 12:44 PM
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