The toxin, which is identified as aminopterin, is used to kill rats in some countries but is not registered for that use in the United States. However, the officials from the manufacturer Menu Foods, which recalled the food some time ago, say it is still not able to find out how it got into the pet foods.
Aminopterin was reportedly found at a level of at least 40 parts per million in tested cat food samples provided by the manufacturer. The test was performed by New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Center at Cornell University and at the New York State Food Laboratory.
The substance, which is also used as a cancer drug, inhibits the growth of malignant cells and suppresses the immune system. Following the news of pet deaths, 60 million cans and pouches of pet food produced by Menu Foods that was sold throughout North America was recalled immediately.
Meanwhile, the Canadian-based pet-food manufacturer says it plans to compensate pet owners whose cats and dogs have died or fallen ill because of toxic food. Free Press quotes Sarah Tuite, a spokeswoman for Menu Foods as saying Thursday, "Menu Foods will take responsibility if an animal has died or got sick as a result."
Menu Foods has also encouraged pet owners to keep veterinary bills and food cans or pouches that were recalled.
