Bird Flu Outbreak Claims Lives of 20 Big Cats at Washington Sanctuary

In a devastating revelation, the Wild Felid Advocacy Center of Washington reported the death of 20 big cats, including a Bengal tiger and several cougars, due to a bird flu outbreak. The sanctuary, situated in Washington state, has been closed to the public and placed under quarantine to mitigate further spread of the lethal virus, which primarily affects animals through respiratory secretions and from consuming infected birds. The animals succumbed between late November and mid-December, marking an unprecedented loss for the sanctuary. The staff emotionally mourns the animals, as director Mark Mathews noted the unusual nature of the outbreak, with most big cats typically passing from old age rather than such a virulent infection.

The sanctuary's Facebook statement detailed that the virus uniquely targets cats, showing initial subtle symptoms that can quickly escalate to severe respiratory issues, often culminating in death within a day. The current health crisis comes amid widespread bird flu affecting both poultry and cattle across the United States. While the CDC maintains that the general public's risk remains low, recent reports indicate a rise in infections among humans, with approximately 61 cases recorded since April 2024. Governor Gavin Newsom has even declared a state of emergency in California to address the bird flu affecting dairy cattle. As the crisis unfolds, only 17 cats remain at the center, sparking concern among wildlife advocacy groups and the public at large.