206-523-7187

info@northseattlevet.com

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, though at this time there have been no reported cases of a person becoming infected from a pet cat.

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

Pet Wellness Care

To ensure that your pet is in the best health possible, we break down our pet wellness plans and services into life stage categories, making sure that your best friend receives the care they need for their age and condition.

Appointment

Pet Wellness Care at North Seattle Veterinary Clinic

Every pet needs to enjoy lifelong health depends on their own unique condition, lifestyle, and temperament. Starting with your pet’s very first visit and pet wellness exam, we’ll create a detailed medical history that acts as a roadmap for future care. While every pet is different, there are several essentials for a healthy life:

  • Yearly physical exams
  • A balanced diet (we carry a variety of prescription diet foods for pets)
    Daily exercise
  • Grooming 
  • Routine lab work that includes blood, urine, and fecal testing to screen for parasites and other problems
  • Routine vaccinations to protect your pet from harmful viruses like rabies and parvovirus
  • Monthly doses of parasite preventive
Puppy and Kitten Care
When your new puppy or kitten is first welcomed into your home, we like to see them right away so that they receive any necessary treatments. We perform nose-to-tail wellness exams and any diagnostics that are recommended as a means of checking for underlying health conditions. We will discuss your pet’s health needs, from proper nutrition to parasite prevention. We will get your pet started on a series of core vaccines that are recommended for all pets.
Adult Dogs and Cats

When your dog or cat reaches adulthood, our veterinary team can tailor your pet’s care to their individual needs as each adult pet is unique. During this stage of your pet’s life, we recommend annual wellness exams to help us keep track of the progression of your pet’s health and needs. We conduct nose-to-tail wellness exams, perform diagnostics to check for heartworm, and administer vaccinations that have been deemed necessary for your pet’s needs. We will determine your pet’s vaccination needs through a discussion about your pet’s lifestyle.

Senior Dogs and Cats

During this stage of your pet’s life, we recommend a wellness exam every 6 months. Senior pets are the most diverse life stage, with each one being unique, having their own set of needs and health concerns. The recommendations we may make for your pet’s treatments will be based on assessments of their physical condition, as well as discussions with you about their lifestyle. After all, you know your pet best, and we depend on your partnership to give your companion the best life.

 

Our goal is to provide the best possible care and education so that your furry loved ones may enjoy a long happy life with you.

We consider you and your pets family and look forward to meeting you.