A man from Portland is taking legal action against a pet food manufacturer after his beloved cat succumbed to bird flu, alleging undisclosed dangers in their raw chicken product. The lawsuit accuses the company of failing to inform consumers about potential health risks tied to their offerings.

The case highlights concerns over transparency in pet nutrition and raises questions about the safety of raw pet food. It also underscores the emotional and financial toll on pet owners who trust these products for their animals' well-being.

Pet Owner's Heartbreak Sparks Legal Action

In early 2025, Tim Hanson introduced a new brand of raw chicken pet food into his household, believing it would benefit his feline companions. Tragically, this decision led to the loss of his four-year-old cat, Kira, due to complications from the H5N1 virus. Hanson now seeks compensation for veterinary expenses and emotional distress.

Hanson had long been an advocate for raw pet food, convinced of its nutritional advantages. However, shortly after switching to Wild Coast Pet Foods, Kira exhibited alarming symptoms, prompting urgent veterinary care. Despite medical intervention, her condition deteriorated rapidly, culminating in the heartbreaking decision to euthanize her. This experience has profoundly affected Hanson, altering the dynamics within his home and leading him to reconsider his stance on raw diets for pets.

Company Practices Under Scrutiny Amidst Outbreak Concerns

The lawsuit alleges that Wild Coast Pet Food misrepresented the safety of their products by not adequately addressing the risks associated with raw poultry, particularly given sourcing from regions prone to bird flu outbreaks. Hanson contends that if he had been aware of these hazards, he would have made a different choice regarding Kira's diet.

Furthermore, the delay in recalling potentially hazardous products raised additional concerns among pet owners. Evidence suggests multiple cases of feline fatalities linked to consumption of Wild Coast's raw chicken across Oregon and Washington. While the company eventually issued a recall and transitioned to cooked chicken options, critics argue this action came too late to prevent unnecessary suffering. Hanson emphasizes the importance of timely communication to protect other pets and their families from similar tragedies. His advocacy extends beyond personal loss, aiming to enhance industry standards and consumer awareness in pet nutrition.