"The nature of industrial animal farming makes it impossible for these operations to prevent the spread of the virus, either among other animals or among workers," deCoriolis added. "That spillover has now happened to people who have not been directly exposed to infected farmed animals and it's entirely possible the virus is now spreading among companion animals."

According to a fact sheet from the World Organisation for Animal Health, while rare, cats can be infected by avian flu. Transmission of the virus may have taken place through exposure to infected animals or food. Loss of appetite, fever, trouble breathing, depression, jaundice, and death are all potential symptoms and outcomes of exposure to the bird flu.

If you suspect your cat may have been exposed to bird flu, seek an emergency veterinary clinic immediately.