If cats or other pets eat this food, they may become infected with Salmonella. Humans can also be infected by handling or ingesting the food, touching the pets who have consumed the food, or touching surfaces that come into contact with the food or the pet(s).
It is advised that anyone in contact with the food, pet or other items that may become contaminated should thoroughly wash their hands with hot water and soap.
The FDA warns consumers to discard the food in a secure, covered trash bin.
The product specified in this warning is the "Wild Kitty Raw All Natural, Frozen Cat Food - Chicken with Clam Recipe, net wt. 3.5 oz. (100 g) and 1 lb. in plastic containers. Some of these products may no be coded. This product is sold nationwide through retail stores and over the Internet.
The Salmonella infection can cause serious illnesses, particularly in young children and the elderly, and people or pets with weakened immune systems. Others may suffer short-term effects with symptoms that may include high fever, severe headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea. Arthritis can be a long-term complication of this infection as well.
The FDA warns consumers who experience any symptoms of infection to seek medical attention and to contact the FDA's Office of Emergency Operations at (301) 443-1240 to report the incident.
The manufacturer declined to recall the product even though several attempts were made by the FDA to do so.
If you believe your pet has become infected from the product or if you have any concerns, the FDA urges you to contact your veterinarian.
The FDA may provide further informational updates as they become available.
