Awareness after Cat Food Recalls
A cat food recall came in response to reports of renal failure in pets. It was apparent for the first time in March 2007, when cats and other pets died of kidney failure and the reason was traced to wet pet foods made with wheat gluten from a single Chinese company. There have been several cases after that, but in spite of extensive government and private testing and forensic research, no cause has yet been isolated.
Sources of Cat Food
Pet food is a billion dollar industry in America. As a result of the cat food recall, the cat food was traced mainly from one company called Menu Foods having nearly 100 brands of cat food. In the United States there has been good media coverage of the cat food recall. There has been public outrage in many places and people have asked for a government regulation of pet food. Pet foods are self-regulated by pet food manufacturers and the government has been asked to step in.
There are about 40 products manufactured by Menu Foods. The favorites which are listed as "cuts and gravy" style products have been removed due to the cat food recall.
The ingredient that is the root of the problem is a protein source which is used to thicken the pet food gravy. These products sold in cans and pouches are available in all the supermarkets in the country. Consumers are advised to stop buying these products with immediate effect. All customers have been advised to remain calm and follow the advice of the veterinary doctors.
Symptoms Causing Alarm
There has been a 30 per cent increase in kidney failure in cats and this is definitely the main reason of the cat food recall. Pet owners have been asked to take their cats to a veterinary doctor as soon as they show any symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, depression, vomiting or diarrhea associated with the unknown toxicant. If the cat is excessively thirsty or urinates more than usual, they could be the symptoms for kidney failure as a result of consuming harmful cat food.
New Cat Food
Due to the sudden cat food recall, the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) has recommended that the cats be fed products which contain U.S.-sourced protein supplements till the crisis is resolved. The ASPCA is keeping a close watch on any new developments in this crisis. Pet owners can call them or email them regarding all queries. Their website provides the necessary advice and answers all questions regarding the cat food recall. The information is up-to-date and fully supported by a team of doctors who have been handling cats with problems after consuming toxic cat food.
