Raw Feeding & Avian Flu: How to Keep Your Pet Safe

Avian flu has been making headlines, and for pet owners who feed raw diets, it’s natural to have concerns. While many premium raw pet food manufacturers follow strict safety protocols, it’s important to stay informed and take extra precautions. Should you stop feeding raw? Not necessarily — but understanding the risks and making small adjustments can help you continue feeding a species-appropriate diet while keeping your pet safe.

Understanding the Risk: Is Raw Feeding Dangerous Right Now?

Avian flu primarily affects birds, but in rare cases, mammals — including pets — can be infected through direct exposure to contaminated poultry. While commercial raw diets go through rigorous safety processes, the concern arises from poultry-based recipes, especially if the sourcing or handling isn’t controlled properly. The good news? There are ways to continue feeding raw safely while minimizing risks.

How to Keep Your Pet Safe While Feeding Raw

Here’s what pet owners can do to reduce risk while continuing to provide the benefits of raw feeding:

1. Choose Brands with Strong Safety Protocols
   • Not all raw foods are created equal. Look for brands that implement High-Pressure Processing (HPP), test-and-hold procedures, and transparent sourcing. These measures significantly reduce the risk of bacterial and viral contamination.
2. Consider Non-Poultry Proteins
   • Since the outbreak mainly affects birds, opting for beef, lamb, venison, pork, or fish as the primary protein source can be a safer alternative.
3. Handle Raw Food with Extra Caution
   • Store raw food properly in a sealed container in the freezer.
   • Use separate utensils for pet food.
   • Wash surfaces and hands thoroughly after handling.
   • Serve raw food in a dedicated feeding area that is easy to clean.
4. Explore Alternative Raw Options
   • If you’re worried about safety but want to keep your pet’s diet as natural as possible, freeze-dried raw is an excellent alternative. It retains the nutritional benefits of raw food but undergoes a drying process that eliminates moisture and significantly reduces microbial risks. Freeze-dried raw is also lightweight, easy to store, and requires minimal preparation.
5. Monitor Your Pet’s Health
   • Be aware of potential symptoms such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, or breathing issues. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.
6. Stay Informed
   • Follow updates from reliable sources such as:
     • FDA (Food and Drug Administration)
     • USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)
     • AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association)
   • These organizations track outbreaks and provide updates on potential risks.

Final Thoughts: Should You Stop Feeding Raw?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but with the right precautions, raw feeding can still be a safe and beneficial option. The key is making informed choices, staying up to date on the latest information, and handling raw food responsibly. If you’re unsure, consider temporarily switching to freeze-dried raw or lightly cooked meals while monitoring the situation.