Northwest Naturals has voluntarily recalled a batch of Feline Turkey Recipe pet food after a cat in Oregon died from H5N1 bird flu, prompting consumer warnings across the U.S. and Canada.

The recall, affecting frozen pet food with best-by dates of May 21 and June 23, 2026, comes after testing linked the cat's death to the contaminated product, leading to heightened health concerns as cats are particularly susceptible to severe symptoms of bird flu. While no human infections have been reported from this incident, household members of the affected cat are under monitoring, and consumers are urged to dispose of the product and seek refunds.

The Oregon Department of Agriculture conducted tests that confirmed the presence of H5N1 in the pet food, which matched the strain found in the deceased cat. This specific variant of avian influenza is known for its high mortality rates in birds and has raised alarms when cases have been detected in mammals, including domestic pets.

The Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food was distributed across multiple states in the U.S. as well as Canada, making it essential for pet owners to check their existing supplies. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has emphasized the importance of monitoring animals for any symptoms of illness, particularly in areas where infected animals have been found.

Pets that come into contact with infected poultry can show signs of illness such as coughing, lethargy, and difficulty breathing—symptoms closely resembling pneumonia. Given that cats can experience severe reactions to bird flu, the CDC has highlighted this vulnerability, advising pet owners to maintain cautious practices.

Consumers who have purchased the recalled product are advised to immediately dispose of it, regardless of whether their pets have shown any signs of illness. Additionally, they should contact the place of purchase to obtain a full refund. Safety experts recommend thorough cleaning of any surfaces that may have come into contact with the contaminated food to mitigate any potential risks.

Despite this, it’s important to note that the CDC has indicated that there have not been any human cases linked directly to this particular incident involving the cat in Oregon. However, with the recent reporting of a severe human case of bird flu in Louisiana, public health officials remain vigilant. That case marked the first serious incident of its kind in the state, although most bird flu infections in humans have been mild to moderate.

The monitoring of the household members of the affected cat reflects ongoing concerns about zoonotic diseases, which can transfer between animals and humans. Public health agencies continue to work closely with veterinarians and the agriculture department to track potential exposures and ensure public safety.

As this situation continues to evolve, it serves as a reminder for pet owners to stay informed about recent developments regarding pet food safety and animal health. It also highlights a growing need for stringent controls and regular testing of raw pet food products to prevent such occurrences in the future.

This incident is not isolated, as a recent recall was made due to contaminants found in pet food. The need for vigilance from both manufacturers and consumers is critical in preventing harmful illnesses in pets and ensuring the health and safety of the broader community.