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Click here for information about the Avian Flu


Avian Influenza, also called H5N1, is a viral disease found in wild and domestic birds. It is transmissible to many mammals, with our biggest concern being pet cats. The most likely ways for cats to become ill is by catching wild birds or from eating a raw-food diet. People can also become sick from avian influenza.

There have been several recent cases of cats contracting avian influenza (and dying) from being fed a commercial frozen raw-food diet. Transmission is also possible from feeding raw (non-pasteurized) milk. Freeze-dried or high-pressure pasteurized diets have a lower risk of causing avian influenza but still have a potential to transmit pathogens. If you are currently feeding a raw diet, we recommend transitioning your pet to a cooked diet. Frozen raw diets can be baked before feeding to kill the virus. 

Cats can also become infected with avian influenza from hunting wild birds. We recommend keeping cats inside at all times, or allowing them outside only while monitored on leash or contained in a catio or cat tent.

Symptoms of avian influenza in cats include respiratory signs such as nasal discharge, coughing and wheezing, and neurologic signs such as wobbliness, difficulty walking and seizures. If you are concerned your cat could be exhibiting signs of avian influenza either call us or your local emergency clinic. Keep in mind that avian influenza is relatively rare, and there are many other diseases that can cause similar signs. If your cat is not allowed outside and is not eating a raw diet then your cat does not likely have avian influenza. If your cat is having trouble breathing or is not able to stand, head to the nearest emergency clinic right away, calling them while en route. 

There is no vaccine to prevent avian influenza in cats. 

Please let us know if you have questions. To read more information about avian influenza and cats visit these links:

https://www.wormsandgermsblog.com/2025/01/articles/animals/cats/h5n1-influenza-raw-diets-and-petsan-overview/

https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/index.html

https://apps.oregon.gov/oregon-newsroom/OR/ODA/Posts/Post/morasch-meats-voluntary-recall-feline-raw-pet-food-hpai

http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/phcommon/public/media/mediapubhpdetail.cfm?prid=4923

Canine Vaccination

Recommended Canine Vaccines

DA2PP: (AKA: “Distemper”) protects against four viruses:

1. Distemper – a virus that causes an incurable and often fatal respiratory and neurologic disease. Transmission is through contact with saliva or urine of infected dogs.

2. Adenovirus – two different viruses that cause a respiratory and an infectious liver disease. Transmission is through contact with saliva or urine of infected dogs.

3. Parainfluenza – a virus that causes an upper respiratory infection. Transmission is from the saliva of infected dogs.

4. Parvovirus – a virus that is highly contagious that causes an often-fatal intestinal disease that also lowers the immune system’s ability to fight infection. Transmission is by contact with infected dog feces. The organism can remain infectious in the environment for many months.

This vaccine is given as a series in puppies, then 1 year later, then every 3 years for adult dogs.

Rabies: A virus that causes a fatal neurologic disease (in all mammals, including people). Transmission is from the saliva of infected animals, generally from bite wounds. Current vaccination is mandated by Washington State law in all dogs and cats. This vaccine is given at 4 months of age, then 1 year later, then every 3 years for adult dogs. Bats are the most common source of rabies in Washington State.

Leptospirosis: A bacterial infection that can cause liver disease and kidney failure. Transmission is by contact with infected urine, generally through standing water or mud. Squirrels, rats and raccoons are the most common animals to spread the bacteria in our area. This vaccine is given as a series of two vaccines, then annually. There are many strains of leptospirosis, and this vaccination covers the two most common strains in Washington State. Note – people can become infected by contacting urine from any infected mammal, including dogs. Vaccination does not prevent an infected dog from shedding the bacteria to other animals or people.

Bordetella: A bacteria that causes respiratory infections in dogs. Transmission is by contact with saliva of infected dogs. Most commonly dogs become infected by being in an area of high concentrations of dogs such as a dog park, shelter, dog show, grooming facility or boarding facility. This vaccine is given annually.

Canine Influenza: A group of highly-contagious viruses that cause a respiratory infection with fever in dogs. Transmission is from the saliva of infected dogs. Most commonly dogs become infected by being in an area of high concentrations of dogs such as a dog park, shelter, dog show, grooming facility or boarding facility. This vaccine is given as a series of two vaccines, then annually. Ask about the most recent locations of outbreaks in the US. Humans cannot contract influenza from dogs

** After receiving vaccinations your pet may become sleepy and may have a decreased appetite for up to 24 hours. There may also be some soreness at the site of the injection for 24 hours. If you notice any vomiting, severe diarrhea, swelling (on the face or paws) or hives, please have your pet treated for a vaccine reaction at North Seattle Veterinary Clinic or at a 24-hour emergency clinic if we are closed.

** If a vaccine reaction occurs, it will typically happen within 12 hours of receiving the vaccine.