Health Canada is recalling a brand of cat food after finding it could be contaminated with salmonella, potentially causing the disease to both pets and humans.
The recall for Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets® Green Pea & Chicken Formula dry cat food was issued on June 17th.
Five and 10 pound sacks are being recalled. Affected products have a best before date of March 10, 2022 and were sold from February to April 2021.
“Consumers should immediately stop feeding cats food affected by this recall and dispose of it immediately or return it to their retailer for a refund,” the recall said.
A total of 378 units were sold in Canada. As of June 2nd, Natural Balance Pet Foods had not received any reports of illness, ailments or injuries in Canada.
Cats ingesting the contaminated product are at risk of developing salmonella infection. Symptoms can include vomiting, decreased appetite, fever, or excessive salivation.
If your pet has consumed the recalled cat food and has the symptoms listed above, Health Canada recommends calling your veterinarian.
The health authority notes that some cats may not appear sick, but they can transmit salmonella to other animals and people.
In addition, salmonella can be transmitted to people who handle the recalled cat food.
People who do not wash their hands after touching a surface that has come into contact with the food or a cat that has eaten the food are particularly at risk.
Symptoms in humans can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and fever. In rare cases, salmonella can cause more serious conditions, including arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, and eye irritation.
People who experience these symptoms after coming into contact with the contaminated food or a cat that has eaten it should contact their doctor.
Health Canada
Health Canada