18 March 2025: High pathogenicity avian influenza (HPAI) H5 in poultry farm cats in Belgium
Published 28 November 2025
Applies to England, Scotland and Wales
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Situation
High pathogenicity avian influenza was detected in 2 symptomatic cats living on a poultry farm in Belgium.
Details
A joint press release by the Belgium Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain, Sciensano and the FPS Public Health, Food Chain Safety and the Environment released on 4 March 2025 announced the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5) in 2 cats living on an infected poultry farm.
The cats displayed severe clinical signs and were euthanized. They were likely infected by consuming contaminated eggs or by drinking infected water, although a definite transmission route remains unconfirmed.
In cats, the virus primarily targets the brain and respiratory tract. Resulting clinical signs can include lethargy, dyspnoea, neurological signs (for example, ataxia, blindness, tremors, seizures and obtundation), or unexpected death. Infection is progressive and attempted treatment mainly supportive.
Actions
This is the first case of infected domestic cats in Belgium, although not the first in Europe. The risk to GB pets remains low. It is important for veterinarians to remain attentive to the disease while maintaining a proportionate response.
Find a map of reported wild bird mortality and findings of avian influenza virus.
Influenza A (H5N1) is notifiable in mammals. Suspicion of influenza A viruses in mammals must be reported immediately. Guidance on suspect case definition and how to report is available on GOV.UK.
Human infection is possible, although rare, and unprotected exposure to any sick or dead infected animal or contaminated environment increases the risk of infection. Veterinary professionals and support staff should take precautions when handling wild birds, pet birds or cats suspected of or positive for HPAI H5N1 infection.
Further information
- Joint press release by the FASFC, Sciensano and the FPS Public Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment, Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain
- Wild Bird Reports (arcgis.com)
- Influenza A (H5N1) infection in mammals: suspect case definition and diagnostic testing criteria – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Bird flu: how to keep pets safe – GOV.UK
Message sent from the Small Animal Expert Group SAEG@apha.gov.uk