Survey Note: Addressing H5N1 Concerns for Canadian Pet Owners Feeding Raw Food
This comprehensive survey note aims to address the concerns of Canadian pet owners who feed raw food and are worried about H5N1 avian influenza affecting them or their pets. Drawing from official Canadian sources such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), and Health Canada, this report provides detailed insights into the risks, confirmed cases, regulatory measures, and practical advice for safe raw feeding practices.
Dr. Ghunaim
3/3/20256 min read
This comprehensive survey note aims to address the concerns of Canadian pet owners who feed raw food and are worried about H5N1 avian influenza affecting them or their pets. Drawing from official Canadian sources such as the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), and Health Canada, this report provides detailed insights into the risks, confirmed cases, regulatory measures, and practical advice for safe raw feeding practices.
Introduction to H5N1 and Its Relevance to Raw Feeding
H5N1, a highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza, primarily affects birds but has shown the ability to infect mammals, including domestic pets like cats and dogs, and humans. The virus can be transmitted through direct contact with infected birds or their secretions, as well as through ingestion of contaminated food products such as raw poultry, eggs, and potentially raw milk or beef from infected sources. For pet owners who feed raw diets, the risk is heightened due to the potential for H5N1 to be present in uncooked animal proteins, particularly poultry, which is a common component of raw pet food.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) notes that while the risk to the general public remains low, the virus's ability to infect mammals raises concerns about potential zoonotic transmission, especially in households where pets and humans share close contact Avian Influenza A(H5N1): For Health Professionals. This is particularly relevant for raw feeders, as raw pet food may not undergo processes like cooking or pasteurization that can inactivate the virus.
Confirmed Cases in Canada
Canada has reported specific cases of H5N1 in pets and humans, highlighting the virus's potential impact:
Pet Cases:
In April 2023, a domestic dog in Oshawa, Ontario, died after chewing on a dead goose that tested positive for H5N1. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and PHAC confirmed this as the country's first case in a pet, with the dog showing respiratory symptoms before death Canada Reports H5N1 Avian Flu in Pet Dog. This case underscores the risk of pets contracting H5N1 through direct contact with infected wildlife.
There have been no recent reports of additional pet cases as of March 2025, but CFIA advises pet owners to remain vigilant, especially during bird migration seasons, to prevent exposure Animals Susceptible to H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Human Cases:
In November 2024, a teenager in British Columbia was confirmed to have H5N1, marking Canada's first human case. The infection was linked to the strain circulating in poultry in the region, but the exact source remains undetermined. An extensive investigation found no evidence of human-to-human transmission, and all tests on household pets, birds, and environmental samples were negative Final Update on Human Avian Influenza Case in B.C.. This case highlights the potential for human exposure, particularly in areas with poultry outbreaks.
These cases emphasize the importance of monitoring and preventive measures for pet owners, especially those feeding raw diets, to protect both pets and human household members.
Commercial Raw Foods and High Pressure Pasteurization/Processing (HPP)
For pet owners using commercial raw pet food, understanding processing methods like High Pressure Pasteurization/Processing (HPP) is crucial. HPP uses high pressure to inactivate pathogens while preserving nutritional content, and research suggests it can be effective against some viruses. However, its effectiveness against H5N1 specifically is not fully established, particularly for raw poultry or eggs.
Studies, such as one published in the Journal of Food Protection, indicate HPP can inactivate certain avian influenza viruses, but these often involve strains like H7N7, not H5N1 Thermal Inactivation of H5N1 High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza Virus in Naturally Infected Chicken Meat. Given recent mutations in H5N1, as noted by PHAC, the potential for the virus to survive HPP cannot be ruled out.
A recall in December 2024 of Northwest Naturals' 2 lb. Feline Turkey Recipe raw frozen pet food, sold in British Columbia and several US states, due to H5N1 contamination, highlights potential manufacturing inconsistencies. A cat in Oregon died after consuming this product, with tests confirming a genetic match between the virus in the food and the infected cat American Pet Food Sold in B.C. Recalled After a Cat Died of Bird Flu. This incident suggests that even processed commercial raw foods may pose risks if not adequately treated.
Pet owners should check for recalls and ensure their commercial raw pet food is from reputable sources with clear processing information. Until more research confirms HPP's effectiveness against H5N1, erring on the side of caution is advisable.
Affected Animal Proteins and Risk Assessment
The primary food sources of concern for H5N1 transmission are poultry, eggs, and raw milk, with beef potentially at risk if derived from dairy cattle infected with the virus. In Canada, there have been no reported cases of H5N1 in dairy cattle as of March 2025, unlike the US, where outbreaks have been significant Animal Health Canada Update. However, the CFIA continues to monitor and test milk and other products to ensure safety.
Poultry and Eggs: These are the most significant risk factors, given H5N1's prevalence in poultry outbreaks. CFIA reports ongoing cases in domestic birds, with subtypes like H5N1 confirmed in British Columbia in 2024 Latest Bird Flu Situation.
Beef: While less likely, the risk exists if beef comes from cattle exposed to infected dairy herds. Given Canada's lack of cases in dairy cattle, the risk is currently low, but pet owners should remain cautious with raw beef products.
Cats vs. Dogs: Research suggests cats are more susceptible to H5N1, with higher mortality rates, as seen in US cases where cats died after consuming contaminated raw pet food. Dogs, while less susceptible, can still be affected, as evidenced by the 2023 Canadian case.
Given these risks, cooking all raw meat for pet food, especially for cats, is strongly recommended to minimize transmission potential.
Canadian Regulatory Measures and Meat Processing
Canada's meat processing industry is regulated by the CFIA under the Safe Food for Canadians Regulations (SFCR), ensuring food safety through inspections and preventive controls. While specific H5N1 testing of each animal is not standard, CFIA conducts surveillance and testing programs for avian influenza in poultry populations, focusing on flocks rather than individual birds Food-Specific Requirements and Guidance – Meat Products and Food Animals.
Poultry Processing: CFIA requires biosecurity measures in poultry farming and processing to prevent H5N1 spread, but individual bird testing is not routine. Surveillance efforts target high-risk areas, and outbreaks trigger broader testing and potential culling to contain the disease.
Beef Processing: Similar to poultry, CFIA guidelines focus on general meat safety, with no specific H5N1 testing for each cow. Given no reported cases in Canadian dairy cattle, the risk is minimal, but pet owners should source beef from CFIA-regulated facilities.
Pet owners feeding raw food should verify that their suppliers are CFIA-certified and follow strict biosecurity measures, as non-certified processors may not meet the same standards.
Health Expert Recommendations and Safe Handling Practices
Canadian health authorities provide clear guidance to minimize H5N1 risks, particularly for raw feeders:
PHAC and CFIA Recommendations:
Avoid feeding pets raw meat from poultry, wild birds, or game birds, and do not allow pets to eat or play with dead birds Animals Susceptible to H5N1 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).
Keep cats indoors and dogs on a leash during peak migration seasons to prevent exposure to infected wildlife.
Wear gloves when handling raw meat, cook all pet food thoroughly, and sanitize all contact surfaces to prevent cross-contamination.
Health Canada’s Stance on Raw Pet Food:
Health Canada does not recommend feeding raw pet food due to the risk of bacterial contamination like Salmonella and E. coli, which can also apply to viral risks like H5N1 Pet Food and Treats. Safe handling includes using dedicated dishes, washing hands after handling, and storing raw food frozen or refrigerated.
Cooking as a Preventive Measure:
Research shows that heat treatment, such as pasteurization at 72°C for 15 seconds, can inactivate H5N1 in milk and meat, suggesting cooking pet food can eliminate the virus Infectious H5N1 Influenza Virus in Raw Milk Rapidly Declines with Heat Treatment. This is a practical step for pet owners to reduce risks.
Recalls and Consumer Actions
Pet owners should stay informed about recalls, as demonstrated by the December 2024 recall of Northwest Naturals' pet food sold in British Columbia due to H5N1 contamination. Health Canada advises following recall instructions and checking the Recalls, Advisories and Safety Alerts site for updates American Pet Food Sold in B.C. Recalled After a Cat Died of Bird Flu. If pet food is recalled, discard it immediately and contact your vet if your pet shows unusual symptoms.
Closing Statement
While H5N1 is a natural virus affecting birds, this information aims to promote safe raw feeding practices and biosecurity measures, not to cause undue concern. Raw diets have faced scrutiny, and by acknowledging areas for improvement and following Canadian guidelines, the raw feeding community can lead by example to protect pets and owners. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on pet nutrition and health.
Key Citations