As bird flu outbreaks continue to affect animals, experts answer questions about keeping pets and their owners healthy

In prior bird flu outbreaks, there’ve been several documented cases of feline-to-feline spread, but ingestion seems to be the primary route of exposure for pets in the current outbreak, says Coleman. If an outdoor cat catches an infected bird or rodent, that can make them sick.

CLEVELAND, Ohio – With the recent spike in bird flu across Ohio, it would be advisable to keep a close eye on your pets. Cats, much more than dogs, are at risk of catching the virus, veterinary experts say, although they don’t know why that’s the case.