​Cat dies after catching highly pathogenic avian flu in southeast Sask.

A domestic cat in southeastern Saskatchewan has died after contracting “highly pathogenic avian influenza,” according to a news release from the provincial Ministry of Agriculture.

The cat that contracted the illness seemed normal on the morning of April 20, but very quickly deteriorated — showing sudden neurological and respiratory signs. 

It died the same day. 

Post-mortem testing from Prairie Diagnostic Services and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency confirmed the presence of the H5N1 strain of the highly pathogenic avian flu, the news release says.

The avian flu usually affects wild birds and domestic poultry, but infections can occur in mammals including cats and dogs, the government said.

The risk of exposure is higher during spring migration, when wild waterfowl activity increases.

The cat that died in this case was known to spend time outdoors. 

“This case highlights the potential for rapid disease progression in cats,” a disease alert memo sent to local veterinarians on May 5 reads. 

The memo says that “veterinarians should maintain a high index of suspicion” for cats that have acute respiratory distress or other neurological symptoms, like seizures. 

“This confirmed case underscores that HPAI H5N1 is a relevant and emerging differential diagnosis in cats in Saskatchewan, particularly during periods of high environmental exposure risk,” the memo says. 

“Vigilance and timely reporting are essential to support animal and public health surveillance efforts.” 

The memo notes that cats with outdoor access could be exposed to the flu through contact with infected wild birds, scavenging or predation or environmental contamination. 

The provincial government said people can protect their pets by keeping them inside or on a leash.

Signs a pet may be infected include trouble breathing, coughing, weakness, extreme lethargy, loss of coordination, or a sudden and unexplained death. 

Pet owners who suspect their animal might be infected are encouraged to call ahead if they need to bring their animal to a veterinary clinic so staff can take precautions.

The government says the risk to people “remains low when people avoid direct contact with sick or dead birds.”

“Members of the public should not touch, feed or handle sick or dead wild birds and exercise caution when dealing with sick animals.”