Pet Health News Roundup, March 12, 2025

by Jon Scaccia March 12, 2025

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Bird flu facts for families

Avian influenza (bird flu) primarily affects birds but can infect humans, especially those in close contact with infected animals like poultry and dairy cattle, with the H5N1 strain now found in U.S. poultry and recently in cattle. While human infections have occurred, no human-to-human transmission has been detected; proper cooking of poultry and eggs and consuming pasteurized dairy ensure safety, while raw milk poses a risk for contamination.

Cat Film Festival comes to M.V. Film Center

The 2025 NY Cat Film Festival, premiering March 15 at the Martha’s Vineyard Film Center, showcases a series of imaginative and inspiring feline-focused films while supporting local shelters through box office donations. This event highlights the bond between humans and cats, combining entertainment with advocacy for pet owners and animal lovers.

Do cats have ‘friends,’ or do they always vie for territory? Animal experts weigh in

Cats can form friendships with other cats and even dogs, but these relationships are complex and influenced by factors like gender, early exposure, and living conditions, with male de-sexed cats often forming closer bonds than female or male-female pairs. Despite these interactions, a cat’s strongest bond is typically with its human owner, emphasizing the importance of fostering a nurturing relationship with your feline companion.

New play The Robot Dog reminds us there are some knowledges we hold that AI will never have

“The Robot Dog,” a play set to explore the interplay between human emotions and artificial intelligence, presents an engaging narrative that delves into the complexities of grief, cultural identity, and the role of robotic pets in alleviating loneliness. By juxtaposing AI’s limitations with the rich tapestry of human experience, the play underscores for pet owners that while robotic companions may offer practical and emotional support, they can never fully replace the irreplaceable wisdom and connection provided by living beings.

Robot dogs and drones used to protect UK heritage

Historic England has highlighted the pivotal role of advanced technology, such as robot dogs and drones, in assessing and mitigating damage at heritage sites following disasters, a capability that would have been invaluable during the 1984 York Minster fire. These innovations enable quick, safe entry into hazardous areas, offering detailed assessments and facilitating faster decision-making to protect and restore historic structures while safeguarding both the sites and personnel.

The best budget-friendly cat foods in 2025

For pet owners looking to balance cost and nutrition, the key takeaway from this article is that a higher price tag does not necessarily correlate with better quality in cat food. Instead, ensuring that the food meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) guidelines for a complete and balanced diet is crucial. Budget-friendly options, like products from Natural Balance and Nutro, can offer nutritious, animal-based proteins and essential nutrients without the premium cost, providing a sensible choice for both adult cats and kittens.