Multiple Food Recalls Spark Fears of Bacterial Infection
Multiple Pet Food Recalls this week sparked fears of bacterial infections: there are specific foods that need to be avoided for dogs, cats and hedgehogs.
The 2 bacteria of concern are Listeria, and Salmonella. They cause a host of problems, but the most common ones are gastrointestinal- vomiting and diarrhea.
GI upset is pretty common in our pets, and fortunately for most it is due to a ‘dietary indiscretion’… . they eat something they shouldn’t have.
We now have a supplement that can be very beneficial for those circumstances, our New Digestive Care Chews.
Tula loves them, and I am finding that she is able to digest her food much better while on them.
Our chews contain a proprietary Digestive Enzyme Blend and 2 Billion CFUs of beneficial Probiotics. Get them here:
Dr. Jones’ Complete Digestive Care Soft Chews
Recent Pet Food Recalls: Important Information for Pet Owners
This week, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued two critical recalls concerning pet food due to the risk of bacterial contamination. These products may pose serious health risks to animals and, in some cases, could be fatal.
Recall Alert for Dog and Cat Food
Firstly, Viva Raw LLC, based in Hillsborough, North Carolina, is conducting a voluntary recall of various cat and dog food products. This action was taken because of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes, which can be extremely harmful. The affected products, all marked with Lot #21244, include:
- Viva Turkey for Dogs (Ground)
- Viva Turkey for Dogs (Chunked)
- Viva Turkey for Cats
- Viva Pure Turkey
- Viva Beef & Turkey for Puppies
These products have been distributed across all 50 states and the District of Columbia, and they do not have an expiration date.
Understanding Listeria Monocytogenes
Listeria monocytogenes is a bacteria notorious for causing Listeriosis, a serious infection that can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, fever, and diarrhea in humans, and can be even more severe, resulting in meningitis and other critical illnesses. Listeriosis poses a higher risk to pregnant women, young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems.
In pets, this bacterium can cause symptoms like diarrhea, anorexia, and fever, and more severe outcomes like depression, miscarriage, or even death.
Steps to Take if You Have Recalled Dog and Cat Food
If you possess any of the recalled products, do not feed them to your pets. It’s advisable to handle these products with gloves or paper towels, dispose of them in a sealed bag, and thoroughly sanitize any contacted surfaces. For refunds, contact Viva Raw at info@vivarawpets.com, and for more detailed information, you can view the recall notice here.
Hedgehog Food Recall
Additionally, Vitakraft Sun Seed Inc. of Weston, Ohio, is recalling select lots of hedgehog food due to potential Salmonella contamination. This includes Sun Seed Vita Prima Hedgehog Food and Vitakraft Vita Smart Hedgehog Food, which have been distributed in several states.
Understanding Salmonella
Salmonella, another dangerous bacteria, can cause severe infections in humans, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, potentially escalating to more severe conditions such as endocarditis and arthritis. In pets, symptoms can include diarrhea, fever, and lethargy, and they can also transmit the bacteria to humans.
If you have any of the recalled hedgehog food, cease feeding it immediately and return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.
Though Listeria is relatively rare in dogs and cats, it can cause severe illness. It’s noteworthy that freezing does not kill Listeria, highlighting the importance of proper food handling. I regularly feed my dog, Tula, raw food that is safely frozen and then defrosted overnight. For pets experiencing regular digestive issues, consider Dr. Jones’ Complete Digestive Care Soft Chews. They are designed to support nutrient absorption and alleviate conditions like food allergies and sensitivities. More information about these chews can be found here.
