Recent shifts in pet care have seen more households embrace raw diets for their cats and dogs. In Thailand, pet owners are re-evaluating feeding practices as new information links raw pet foods to health risks, including potential connections to the H5N1 bird flu. This prompts a practical rethinking of safe feeding for Thai families and their furry companions.
Raw pet food has long sparked debate due to uncooked meats that can carry harmful germs. A reported case connected a batch of raw turkey food to an H5N1 exposure, culminating in a cat’s death after ingestion. Genetic testing identified the product as the likely source of the virus, with similar incidents reported elsewhere where felines became ill after consuming various raw diets. Thai veterinarians emphasize that these cases illustrate broader safety concerns around raw feeding.
Cats appear especially vulnerable to H5N1, which can cause high mortality in felines. Dogs may contract the virus too, but often show milder symptoms. In addition to influenza risk, raw diets can harbor bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, threatening both pets and human handlers. A 2023 human Salmonella outbreak tied to handling raw dog food underscores the interconnected health risks of these diets.
Despite these dangers, some owners view raw feeding as a natural, ancestral approach. Advocates claim benefits such as shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. However, leading veterinary experts say these claimed advantages lack solid scientific backing, and everyday owner perceptions do not replace rigorous evidence.
Major veterinary associations generally discourage raw diets, and national health authorities reiterate cautions about hazards to pets and people. In Thailand, concerns about transmission risks persist, particularly in light of past avian influenza episodes that prompted poultry culling. Contaminated raw meats or contact with wildlife can pose real threats to households.
A balanced path forward is recommended. Veterinary guidance supports avoiding raw pet foods and prioritizing well-cooked, nutritionally complete meals for cats and dogs. While the probability of humans contracting H5N1 from pets is low, preventive steps remain prudent. Researchers advise safer dietary options that still meet pets’ nutritional needs.
For Thai households, the clear takeaway is to safeguard animal welfare by choosing safe, nutritious feeding options and to consider keeping pets indoors where appropriate. Health experts emphasize practical guidelines: avoid raw pet food and rely on established, vet-approved nutrition plans.