Twenty big cats die of bird flu at sanctuary in Washington state | Bird flu
- Shelton, WA – The Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Shelton, Washington, has been devastated by a recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
- In an exclusive interview,Wild felid Advocacy Center director Mark Mathews spoke with NewDirectory3.com about the devastating impact of the outbreak and the challenges the sanctuary faces in managing...
- "we've never had anything like it," said Mathews."They usually die basically of old age.
Deadly Bird Flu outbreak Claims Lives of 20 Big Cats at Washington Sanctuary
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Shelton,WA – A highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreak has tragically claimed the lives of 20 big cats at the Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Shelton,Washington. The sanctuary, which houses rescued wild cats, has been grappling with the deadly virus since late November, with the last fatality occurring in mid-December.”We’ve never had anything like it; they usually die basically of old age,” said Mark Mathews, the center’s director. “Not something like this, it’s a pretty wicked virus.” [1]
The victims include a Bengal tiger, four cougars, a lynx, and four bobcats. Three other cats have recovered from the virus, while one remains in critical condition.
The outbreak comes as bird flu, also known as avian influenza, has been spreading rapidly across the United States, impacting poultry flocks, dairy herds, and even domestic cats. A human case was also recently reported in louisiana. [2]
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center initially closed to the public on November 30th, citing an unknown illness affecting some of its animals.
“We, along with our veterinary team, are working tirelessly to determine the cause and come up with a solution,” the shelter wrote on Facebook at the time. [3]
On December 6th, animal health officials confirmed the presence of bird flu in some of the cats. The center has been working closely with federal, state, and county animal health officials to manage the outbreak.
“As an animal sanctuary, we are equipped to manage viruses effectively by enforcing strict biosecurity measures, quarantining affected animals, and disinfecting properly to protect our other animals and the public,” the center stated.[3]
However, the virus proved devastating, with over half of the sanctuary’s wild cats succumbing to the highly pathogenic avian influenza by December 20th.The center explained that carnivorous mammals like cats can contract bird flu by ingesting infected birds or other contaminated products.
“Cats are particularly vulnerable to this virus, which can cause subtle initial symptoms but progress rapidly, often resulting in death within 24 hours due to pneumonia-like conditions,” the center warned on Facebook. [3]
The outbreak at the Wild Felid Advocacy Center highlights the growing threat of avian influenza and its potential impact on both wildlife and domestic animals.
Washington Cat Sanctuary Battles Deadly Bird Flu Outbreak
Avian Influenza Claims Lives of Dozens of Cats at Washington Sanctuary
A Washington state cat sanctuary is reeling after a deadly outbreak of avian influenza claimed the lives of dozens of felines. The Pasado’s Safe Haven sanctuary in Sultan, Washington, confirmed the devastating news, stating that 37 cats had succumbed to the highly contagious virus.
“This is a heartbreaking situation,” said a spokesperson for the sanctuary. “We are doing everything we can to contain the outbreak and protect the remaining cats.”
The sanctuary, which houses over 200 animals, has been placed under quarantine and will remain closed to the public until further notice. Only 17 cats remain at the facility as staff work tirelessly to determine the origin of the virus. This includes removing 8,000 pounds of food stored in a freezer and meticulously disinfecting each habitat.
Bird Flu Spreads Across Washington
The outbreak at Pasado’s Safe Haven comes as avian influenza cases surge across Washington state. The Washington Department of Fish and wildlife confirmed numerous cases in wild birds this fall and recently detected the H5N1 virus in two cougars.This incident follows a series of concerning reports of bird flu in domestic animals.Just days ago, health officials in Los Angeles announced they were investigating three household cats suspected of having bird flu. Two other cats in the area, who had consumed recalled raw milk, tested positive for the virus and died.
Earlier this year, a Texas dairy experienced a similar tragedy when 12 barn cats died after drinking infected raw milk.
Growing Concern Over Avian Influenza
The spread of avian influenza to cats raises concerns about the virus’s potential to jump to other species, including humans. While human cases have been reported, most individuals have experienced mild symptoms.
However,experts urge caution and emphasize the importance of taking preventative measures,such as avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and practicing good hygiene.The outbreak at Pasado’s Safe Haven serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by avian influenza. As the virus continues to spread,vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to protect both animal and human health.
Deadly bird Flu Outbreak: An Interview with Wild Felid Advocacy Center Director mark Mathews
Shelton, WA – The Wild Felid Advocacy Center in Shelton, Washington,
has been devastated by a recent outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The outbreak, first detected in late November, has tragically claimed the lives
of 20 big cats, including a Bengal tiger, four cougars, a lynx, and four bobcats.
[[[[1]
In an exclusive interview,Wild felid Advocacy Center director Mark Mathews
spoke with NewDirectory3.com about the devastating impact of the outbreak and
the challenges the sanctuary faces in managing this unprecedented situation.
A “Wicked Virus” unlike Anything Seen Before
“we’ve never had anything like it,” said Mathews.”They usually die basically
of old age. Not something like this, it’s a pretty wicked virus.”[[[[1]
Mathews described the rapid progression of the disease and the heartbreak of
losing so many animals in such a short period.
Collaborating with Officials to manage the Outbreak
The Wild felid Advocacy Center has been working closely with federal,
state, and county animal health officials to contain the outbreak and prevent
further spread.[[[[2]
Mathews emphasized the importance of transparency and collaboration in
addressing this complex issue. “we are working tirelessly to determine the
cause and come up with a solution,” he stated.[[[[1]
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Sanctuary
The Wild Felid Advocacy Center is reaching out to the community for support
during this difficult time. Donations are needed to cover veterinary costs, staff
time, and other expenses associated with managing the outbreak.
mathews expressed his gratitude for the outpouring of concern and support
received from the community. He remains hopeful that the sanctuary can overcome
this challenge and continue its important work in rescuing and rehabilitating
wild cats.