Feline Pride’s of Buffalo, N.Y., has issued a voluntary nationwide recall of its natural chicken formula raw food for cats and kittens because of concerns of salmonella contamination, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The recalled product, produced June 10, was packaged in 2½-pound uncoded plastic containers and sold frozen to consumers. Once thawed, the pet food has a shelf life of about one week. The company said the recall affects orders placed and shipped June 10 through June 17. Feline’s Pride and the FDA are working to determine the source of the problem. Neither Feline’s Pride nor the FDA has received reports of salmonella infection relating to the recalled product, according to the company. Pets suffering salmonella infections may be lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some pets may have decreased appetite, fever and abdominal pain. Infected but otherwise healthy pets can be carriers and infect other animals or humans, according to the company. Cat owners are urged to contact their veterinarian if their pet consumed the recalled product and is exhibiting these symptoms. Humans can become infected, especially if they have not thoroughly washed their hands after touching the raw pet food or surfaces exposed to it, according to the company. Children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are particularly susceptible. Consumers are advised to stop using the recalled cat food and dispose of it in a covered trash receptacle. For more information, contact Feline’s Pride at 716-580-3096 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT Monday through Friday. <HOME>
