Aminopterin Poisoning from Pet Food: What to Do

From Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., About.com Guide to Chemistry. Dr. Helmenstine has put together an excellent resource on aminopterin poisoning, including how it acts on pets that have eaten contaminated foods on the Menu Foods recall list, what symptoms to look for, and what to do if you suspect your pets ate one of those foods.

Coincidentally, I had taken my two older cats, Jaspurr and Joey (5) to my veterinarian for blood tests, at about the same time Dr. Helmenstine was posting her article. They had eaten one of the recalled foods (Nutro Natural Choice Packets) regularly, the last time around two weeks ago. Although I have not yet received the results of the tests, I was relieved to read that symptoms of aminopterin poisoning present relatively quickly, in most cases. My Billy (4) will be going to the vet tomorrow to be tested, and for his annual physical and shots. Dr. Odom is already donning his protective gear for that event.

Suggested Reading:

• Aminopterin Definition
• Pet Food Scare Information Without Using Scare Tactics