Warning Issued for Cat Owners Amid Recall of Potentially Contaminated Pet Food

Cat owners are facing a serious health concern after a potential contamination alert.

Savage Pet, based in El Cajon, California, has announced a recall affecting 66 large chicken boxes (84 oz.) and 74 small chicken boxes (21 oz.). The products carry a lot code and “best by” date of 11.15.2026, as they may potentially contain H5N1, commonly referred to as bird flu, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The contaminated cat food was distributed across five states: California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, as reported on the FDA’s website.

Health Alerts for Cat Owners

Consumers who have fed their cats these recalled products are urged to monitor for symptoms of bird flu. Signs may include fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, inflamed eyes, nasal discharge, respiratory difficulties, and neurological issues such as tremors, rigid movements, seizures, lack of coordination, or even blindness. The FDA advises immediate consultation with a veterinarian if cats exhibit any of these symptoms.

Understanding the Risks

The FDA has clarified that while there have been no documented human infections related to handling raw pet food products, exposure to live viruses can affect humans. If the virus enters a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth, it poses a health risk.

Preventative Measures

In light of these developments, regular handwashing and cleaning of surfaces that come into contact with pet food is highly recommended. Those who handled the recalled products should also remain vigilant for signs of bird flu in themselves, which may manifest as eye redness or irritation, coughing, sore throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, muscle aches, headaches, fatigue, fever, difficulty breathing, seizures, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues including diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.

Recent Incidents Involving H5N1

Earlier in February, Savage Pet indicated that they were made aware of one cat in Colorado that contracted H5N1 and subsequently recovered. Laboratory testing at Colorado State University utilized PCR methods to analyze sealed packets of Savage Cat Food for the virus.

The initial test results returned as non-negative, prompting further investigation. The product samples were forwarded to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, for additional virus isolation testing, which ultimately returned negative.

New Cases Reported

On March 13, Savage Pet reported an additional case involving a kitten in New York that consumed food from the same lot and subsequently contracted avian flu. This unfortunate incident indicates ongoing concerns, and testing is still underway.

As a precautionary step, the company has expanded their withdrawal of the affected products to a full recall. The chicken boxes, made of cardboard and containing individual plastic packets inside, have the lot code and “best by” date visibly stamped.

Transmission Among Cats

Previous research has indicated that H5N1 may spread among cats. This was further corroborated by a recent announcement from the New York City Health Department. The report detailed instances of two cats confirmed with bird flu, as well as a third cat suspected of having it, all linked to Savage Cat Food.

The tragic fate of the first cat, named Cat A, ended when it fell ill and died after consuming the chicken packets. Testing conducted at the Cornell Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed exposure to H5. Confirmation testing by the USDA National Veterinary Services Laboratory is still pending.

Seeking Answers and Further Testing

A second cat, referred to as Cat B, was also diagnosed with H5N1 and succumbed to the infection. Notably, this cat did not directly consume the raw food product but was exposed to Cat C, which developed fever after eating from the same Savage Cat Food lot. Cat C survived, but testing for H5 was not conducted due to the elapsed time.

This chain of events suggests that Cat B may have contracted the virus through contact with Cat C, highlighting the serious implications of the recall.

Final Thoughts

With the landscape of pet food safety consistently evolving, and given the severe implications of potential avian influenza exposure, it is essential for cat owners to stay informed and proactive. Monitoring health signs in pets and practicing stringent hygiene measures can safeguard both pets and owners from unforeseen risks. As investigations continue, authorities will work towards ensuring safer food options for our beloved feline companions.