Savage Pet of El Cajon, California, is recalling 140 chicken food boxes due to a potential health threat from bird flu (H5N1). The recall affects products with the lot code “best by” date of 11.15.2026, which were distributed to retailers in five states: California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington.
According to the US Food & Drug Administration (FDA), people who fed their cats these recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu, including fever, lethargy, low appetite, reddened or inflamed eyes, discharge from the eyes and nose, difficulty breathing, and neurological signs. If your cat exhibits these symptoms after consuming the product, contact your veterinarian immediately.
The recall is due to concerns that H5N1 can be transmitted among cats. Previous studies have suggested this possibility, which is supported by a recent statement from the New York City Health Department. The department reported two cases of bird flu in cats and a suspected third case connected to Savage Cat Food.
To minimize risk, people who handled the recalled products should wash their hands regularly and clean contact surfaces. If you’ve contacted these products or have symptoms of bird flu, contact your healthcare provider and local health department for guidance.
The FDA has confirmed that no human infections have been identified among people handling raw pet food products, but humans can become infected if the live virus enters a person’s eyes, nose, or mouth.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/cat-owners-beware-pet-food-bird-flu-risk-recalled