- Where is the list of recalled cat foods?
Click here for Menu Food's Complete list of recalled cat foods. - Where can I find the list for recalled dog foods?
The recalled dog food list is here. - Why are these pet foods being recalled?
Although some original reports specified contaminated wheat gluten from a specific manufacturer, Menu Food's latest press release only states that the timing of the complaints "coincides with the introduction of an ingredient from a new supplier." Menu Foods has switched to a different supplier for "that ingredient." - What is the purpose of wheat gluten in these products?
The wheat gluten is said to be used to thicken the gravy in the "cuts and gravy" foods. - Where are these specific foods manufactured?
According to the FDA Press Release, the recalled foods are processed in Menu Food's facility in Emporia, Kansas, and possibly in another plant in New Jersey. - What manufacture dates are included in the pet food recall?
The original suspect products were manufactured from December 3, 2006 through March 6, 2007. - How can I find the "manufactured date" on pet food products?
It would appear that this information is not required on pet food labels. Most do contain a "Best Used By" date, or an undecipherable production code. The Menu Foods Recall List specifies the "Best Used by" date on each of the individual brands listed.Added March 24, 2007:Menu Foods has asked retailers to remove all products on the list from their shelves as a precautionary move, and they have notified the FDA of this action. - Where should I return suspect foods?
You may return suspect food to the retailer where you purchased it. However, if you have a sick cat, or a cat that has died, you are advised to save it as evidence, if needed later. - Are dry foods from these listed brands safe?
Specifically mentioned in the recall are certain canned foods brands and pouch foods, both of the "cuts and gravy" style. Menu Foods assures pet owners that dry foods are not included in the recall, and that they should be safe to feed. - Has anyone heard anything about such-and-such a brand or formula? Is it safe to feed?
The only answer to those kinds of questions at the present is to feed your cats foods that are not on the Recall List. Added March 24, 2007:Menu Foods has asked retailers to remove all products on the list from their shelves as a precautionary move, and they have notified the FDA of this action. - What, specifically, is the danger to pets that have eaten these recalled cat and dog foods?
The contaminated products contain toxins that specifically affect the kidneys, ultimately causing acute kidney failure and possible death. Preliminary findings by the Iowa State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, according to a document from ACVIM are that "autopsy and microscopic examination of tissues from affected animals indicate acute renal toxicosis including the presence of birefringent crystals, as well as other crystal formations. The effects are consistent with exposure to ethylene glycol and derivatives, mycotoxins, ochratoxin and citrinin, some heavy metals or vitamin D toxicity. At the present time the exact cause of this problem is not yet known. Investigations are continuing." - What are the symptoms of kidney failure?
The most common symptoms of kidney failure are loss of appetite, vomiting, and depression. Excessive thirst (polydipsia) and excessive urination might also be present, as well as diarrhea.
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