According to reports from The State Veterinary Institute (SVA) Over 200 cats in Dalarna County became ill in Salmonella in the spring of 2024, which is a record number. Bird tables are believed to be a large source of infection, where sick birds spread the bacterium to the cats.
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Greatest spread of infection in winter and spring
– The spread of infection is greatest in late winter and spring when many birds gather at the bird feed stations, says the county veterinarian Janna Nises In an interview in SVT.
Cats that get salmonella often feel bad, and symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting are common. Most people recover without veterinary care, but in some cases the disease may become serious and then the cat may need intensive care. In the worst case, the disease can lead to death.
The spread of salmonella is greatest in late winter and spring when many birds gather at the bird feed stations. Photo: Paul Kleiven/TT
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Toddlers and older are extra exposed
Toddlers and the elderly are at greater risk of being infected by salmonella. In these groups, a lower amount of bacteria may suffice to cause disease, and in most cases children are suspected to have been infected by their own cats.
SVA recommends avoiding too close contact between the cat and the children. For example, if the cat is infected by salmonella, it is good if it does not sleep in the same bed as the children.
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How to protect the cat
To reduce the risk of the cat being infected and then risks transferring the infection to man, one should be careful with the bird feeding, it points out Janna Nises.
She also thinks that you can use a bird machine that is designed so that the bird cannot enter and contaminate the seeds. The material may be easy to clean.
– Plastic cylinders are better than traditional wooden houses, says Janna Nises.
It is also important to continuously rake seeds and bird stools from the ground.
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