Raw Pet Food Linked To Palm Springs Location Apart Of Food Recall After H5N1 Outbreak In Cats

Los Angeles County public health officials are issuing a renewed warning to pet owners following a recall of raw pet food linked to the H5N1 bird flu, according to the LA Times.

The recall involves Monarch Raw Pet Food, a San Jacinto-based company that sells raw poultry products at various California farmers' markets, which advertises the sale of products from across Southern California, including Palm Springs.

This action follows the discovery of H5N1 virus traces in product samples, and the subsequent outbreak of infections in local cats.

The recall was prompted by positive test results for the virus in samples of the raw poultry products. Despite the public health threat, Monarch Raw Pet Food’s website continues to promote its products. There is no mention of the recall or the potential dangers posed by the contaminated pet food.

At least one cat in Los Angeles County has tested positive for H5N1 after consuming the affected pet food, leading to the infection of four other cats from the same household. Tragically, two of the infected cats have died.

Health experts are urging pet owners to stop feeding raw pet food, particularly raw poultry products, and to reconsider feeding any raw meat or dairy products to their pets. These products can carry harmful pathogens, including H5N1, which can pose serious risks to both pets and humans.

Public health officials are also calling on residents who may have fed their pets Monarch Raw Pet Food or any other raw meat or dairy products and who have noticed signs of illness in their pets, such as lethargy, loss of motor control, drooling, or unusual behavior, to immediately contact their veterinarian.