Bird flu (H5 avian influenza) reached Australia in mid-2026, and it has now been detected in wild birds across five states. For most dogs and cats the everyday risk is still low, but a few simple, evidence-based steps are worth taking now — especially if you walk your dog along the coast or let your cat roam. Every health claim below is linked to an Australian or veterinary authority so you can check it yourself.
General information only — this is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, contact your vet. The health information below is drawn from public Australian government, university and veterinary sources, all linked in the text.
Is bird flu really in Australia now?
Yes. The first case of the H5 strain in Australian wildlife was confirmed on 20 June 2026, and by 11 August 2026 there were more than 230 confirmed detections in wild birds — spread across Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland (WWF Australia). Most have been in seabirds and shorebirds; the first case in a mainland, non-migratory bird was a greater crested tern at Robe in South Australia (Biodiversity Council). So far there have been no confirmed detections in commercial poultry (DAFF). Late winter and spring bring more shorebird activity around wetlands and beaches, which is why authorities are asking owners to take extra care outdoors.
Can dogs and cats catch bird flu?
It is possible, but uncommon — and the picture is very different for the two species. Dogs are extremely unlikely to catch H5N1 (PetSure). Cats are more susceptible, and when they are infected the illness can be severe or fatal: the Cornell Feline Health Center notes that up to 70% of infected cats die of their infections (Cornell). Both dogs and cats are usually exposed the same way — by catching or scavenging an infected wild bird, or by eating raw poultry or unpasteurised (raw) milk products (the AVMA). Overseas, several raw pet-food products have been recalled after H5N1 was found in them (Cornell).
Warning signs to watch for
In cats, early signs can be vague — lethargy and loss of appetite — before progressing to breathing problems (sneezing, coughing, laboured breathing) and neurological signs such as wobbliness, tremors, seizures or sudden blindness (Cornell; PetSure). Dogs may show fever, low energy, coughing or eye and nose discharge. These signs overlap with far more common illnesses, so on their own they do not mean bird flu. But if your pet becomes unwell after bird contact, call your vet and mention it (Animal Emergency Service).
| Situation | What to do |
|---|---|
| Healthy pet, no bird contact | Carry on as normal and follow the prevention steps below |
| Pet sniffed or touched a live wild bird but seems well | Wash the area, monitor for 2–3 days, avoid repeat contact |
| Pet mouthed or ate a sick or dead bird | Call your vet for advice, even if your pet seems fine |
| Any breathing trouble, wobbliness, tremors, seizures or collapse | Treat as an emergency — contact your vet or an emergency clinic now |
How to protect your dog and cat
The advice from Australian wildlife and veterinary bodies is simple. For dogs:
- Keep dogs on a lead around beaches, wetlands, lakes and rivers — even in off-leash areas — and do not let them chase birds or investigate carcasses (Biodiversity Council).
- Do not let your dog eat or roll in dead animals or droppings.
- Feed commercially prepared or cooked food and avoid raw or undercooked poultry (PetSure).
For cats:
- Keep cats indoors or in a secure enclosure — a catio counts — which protects your cat and local wildlife at the same time (DCCEEW). Roaming cats that hunt birds have the highest exposure (Biodiversity Council).
- Avoid raw-meat and raw-milk diets during the outbreak (Cornell).
- Wash your hands after handling birds, poultry or their environments.
Allowing your dog to interact with wild birds is playing russian roulette with their health; it increases their risk of contracting H5N1 bird flu.
Professor Euan Ritchie, wildlife ecologist, Deakin University — via the Biodiversity Council
Found a sick or dead bird?
Do not touch it. If you see multiple sick or dead birds — or a dead seabird, bird of prey or marine mammal — note the location and report it to the national Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888 (DAFF; Agriculture Victoria). Keep pets and people well clear until you have reported it.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to walk my dog on the beach right now?
Yes. Keep your dog on a lead near birds, steer them away from any carcasses, and you have removed most of the risk.
Should I keep my cat inside?
Keeping cats indoors or in an enclosure lowers their exposure and protects wildlife — it is the single most effective step you can take for a cat (DCCEEW).
Is there a bird flu vaccine for pets?
No. Routine dog and cat vaccinations do not cover avian influenza, so protection is all about avoiding exposure rather than a needle.
Can I catch bird flu from my pet?
Human cases are very rare and there is no evidence of human-to-human spread in Australia (PetSure). Still, wash your hands after handling animals and see your GP if you feel unwell.
Key takeaways
- Bird flu is now in Australian wild birds across five states, with no poultry cases confirmed yet.
- Cats are more at risk than dogs — keep cats indoors or in a secure enclosure.
- Keep dogs leashed near water and away from dead or sick birds.
- Skip raw poultry and raw milk in pet diets while the outbreak continues.
- Report sick or dead birds to 1800 675 888, and call your vet if your pet is unwell after bird contact.
Sources are linked inline throughout. This is general information only, not a substitute for professional advice — consult a licensed veterinarian for guidance specific to your pet.
