​

Australia has recently confirmed its first detections of the highly pathogenic H5N1 bird flu virus in wild migratory birds. This has only been located so far in Western Australia and South Australia (30/06/26).

While the risk to the general public remains low and documented cases of H5N1 in cats and dogs are rare, pet owners should still take sensible precautions.

​

• Keep dogs on a lead around beaches and waterways.

• Prevent pets from approaching or eating sick or dead birds.

• Keep cats indoors where possible to reduce hunting.                                      

​

If your pet has had contact with wild birds and shows any of the following signs:

• Fever

• Fatigue

• Low appetite

• Reddened or inflamed eyes

• Discharge from the eyes and nose

• Difficulty breathing

• Neurologic symptoms, like tremors, seizures, incoordination, or blindness

 

please contact our clinic promptly for advice. We are continuing to work under the guidance of experts and will provide updates as new information becomes available.