On June 8, 2026, the Cornell Feline Health Center (CFHC) announced a new initiative aimed at addressing the threats posed by highly pathogenic avian influenza (H5N1) to feline health. A recent article published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research details the CFHC Feline H5N1 Surveillance Consortium, which is supported by a rapid response grant program funded by philanthropic donations.
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This consortium combines expertise from various fields including virology, infectious disease, epidemiology, shelter medicine, veterinary public health, and feline health. Its main objectives are to understand the impact of H5N1 on cats, identify active influenza infections, and assess prior exposure among felines. Additionally, the consortium will functionally and genetically characterize influenza viruses present in cat populations.
The pilot surveillance program is currently underway in shelters and community spay-neuter clinics across New York State. Reports have indicated that H5N1 infections in cats are often linked to exposure to wild birds, livestock environments, and diets involving raw milk and meat, with mortality rates in infected cats reaching up to 70%. The consortium aims to collect data that will enhance future strategies for monitoring, prevention, treatment, and public health preparedness.