The Washington State Department of Health verified the presence of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in pet cats and unopened containers of Wild Coast Raw Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula for cats in April 2025. Several cats became ill and tested positive for HPAI after consuming the product. [1]
Date of Advisory: April 2025
Regulatory Authorities Involved: Washington State Department of Health, CDC, USDA, FDA
Contaminant: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1)
Product Affected: Wild Coast Raw Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula for Cats
While transmission from pets to humans is rare, it may occur in immunocompromised individuals or those in close contact with infected animals. Extra caution is advised for such individuals.
| Brand | Product Name | Size/Type | Contaminant | Distribution Area | Recall/Advisory Date |
| Wild Coast Raw | Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula (Feline) | 2 lb vacuum-sealed packs | HPAI H5N1 (Avian Influenza) | Washington, Oregon | April 2025 |
This recall is one of the first confirmed cases linking commercial raw pet food to an outbreak of avian influenza (H5N1) in domestic cats. It highlights the cross-species transmission risks associated with raw meat diets and underscores the need for enhanced public health surveillance, especially when novel pathogens are involved.
Manufacturers of raw pet food must follow:
Manufacturer’s Guidance Wild Coast Raw and similar raw pet food manufacturers should adopt the following measures:
Pathogen Testing: Conduct routine batch testing for H5N1, Salmonella, and Listeria.
Supply Chain Control: Ensure poultry and raw materials meet veterinary inspection and biosafety standards.
Cold Chain Verification: Maintain required temperatures during storage and transport to reduce contamination risk.
Recall Plan: Establish a traceability and recall protocol per FDA guidelines.
Consumer Communication: Provide timely risk updates through product labels and online platforms.
FRL Commentary The HPAI (H5N1) issue in Wild Coast Raw pet food highlights the urgent need for better biosafety in raw animal-based products. At FRL, we emphasize:
Zoonotic Risk: Raw poultry diets must undergo strict microbial testing to prevent species-to-species transmission.
Traceability: Complete tracking and supplier audits are critical.
Regulatory Readiness: Verify compliance with FDA and USDA rules before product release.
Consumer Guidance: Ensure clear safety info and recall notices on packaging and digital channels. FRL provides expert support in formulation, microbial safety, and regulatory compliance to protect product quality and consumer trust.
The 2025 Wild Coast Raw recall reveals major risks from HPAI in raw pet food, affecting both animal and human health. It highlights the urgency for strict testing, traceability, and regulatory adherence. Proactive cooperation between manufacturers, veterinarians, and public health bodies is crucial to prevent future cross-species outbreaks.
Food Research Lab strives for excellence in new Food, Beverage and Nutraceutical Product Research and Development by offering cutting edge scientific analysis and expertise.