21/06/2026
⚠️ Important Biosecurity Alert for Cat Owners in Western Australia ⚠️
Our rescue is sharing an urgent public health and animal safety notice regarding avian influenza (H5 bird flu), which has now been detected in Western Australia.
While this virus primarily affects birds, it can also infect cats under certain conditions—particularly through contact with infected birds (including wild birds), contaminated environments, or raw infected poultry products.
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🐱 Can cats get H5 bird flu?
Yes. Although cases are still uncommon, cats can become infected. Infected birds shed high levels of virus, and cats that hunt, scavenge, or are exposed to contaminated areas are at risk.
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🚨 Symptoms to watch for in cats
Seek urgent veterinary attention if your cat shows any of the following:
* Sudden lethargy or weakness
* Loss of appetite
* Fever
* Coughing, sneezing, or difficulty breathing
* Discharge from eyes or nose
* Vomiting or diarrhoea
* Neurological signs (tremors, seizures, loss of coordination)
* Sudden unexplained illness or collapse
Symptoms can progress quickly, so early action is critical.
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🛡️ How to protect your cat
Prevention is the most important defence:
* Keep cats indoors or fully contained on your property
* Use secure cat runs / catios / enclosed outdoor enclosures
* Prevent hunting of birds and wildlife at all times
* Do not feed raw or undercooked poultry products
* Keep cats away from dead or injured birds
* Wash hands after handling animals or being outdoors in bird areas
* Report sick or dead wild birds to relevant wildlife authorities
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🏡 Why confinement matters now more than ever
This situation is a strong reminder that free-roaming cats are at significantly higher risk of exposure—not only to traffic and injury, but now also to emerging infectious diseases like H5 bird flu.
Keeping cats:
* indoors, or
* safely enclosed within your property
is one of the most effective ways to protect them long-term. Cat runs and secure outdoor enclosures allow enrichment and fresh air without unnecessary risk.
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❤️ From our rescue team
We know many cats are used to outdoor access, but this is a changing environment with new biosecurity risks. Small changes now can prevent devastating illness later.
If you’re unsure how to transition your cat to indoor life or need ideas for safe enrichment, reach out—we’re happy to help.
Please share this post to help keep cats across WA safe.
