Savage Pet, based in El Cajon, California, has issued a recall for several boxes of their chicken cat food due to potential contamination with the bird flu virus, H5N1. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported the recall affects 66 large chicken boxes (84 oz.) and 74 small chicken boxes (21 oz.) marked with the lot code and best-by date of November 15, 2026.
This recall follows alarming reports related to the product's safety. The FDA disclosed on March 13, 2025, it became aware of another case involving avian flu after the consumption of this specific cat food. Previously, Savage Pet learned about one cat from Colorado contracting the virus and thankfully recovering. The connection to the cat food prompted immediate action to recall the product nationwide.
Brought to light following two reported infections, the recall serves as a precaution due to potential risks associated with H5N1. “People who fed [their] cats the recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu,” stated the FDA, emphasizing vigilance among pet owners during this period.
The FDA warned of certain symptoms to look for, including fever, lethargy, and low appetite among cats. Other concerning signs include reddened or inflamed eyes, nasal discharge, difficulty breathing, and neurological issues such as tremors and seizures. It is imperative for any pet owner noticing these symptoms after feeding the recalled product to consult with their veterinarian immediately.
Besides monitoring the health of their pets, the FDA also cautioned individuals who have handled the contaminated products. While there have been no reported human infections linked to these cat food products, the FDA does advise avoiding direct contact with the raw food where possible. Humans can theoretically become infected if they are exposed to the virus through their eyes, nose, or mouth.
Regular hand washing and sanitizing of surfaces after handling pet food are also recommended. “People who handled the recalled products should watch for symptoms of bird flu,” reiterated the FDA, indicating the potential for human exposure as something to remain conscious of.
The timeline for the recall began when Savage Pet received notification of the Colorado case, leading to PCR testing of sealed packets of cat food. The tests yielded “non-negative” results—an alarming indicator spurring the urgent reassessment of the product's safety. To mitigate any risks, the company withdrew the product from the market as they awaited confirmation results.
On March 6, results of the virus isolation testing showed no trace of H5N1, providing some level of initial reassurance. Yet just days later, on March 13, the second case—a kitten from New York—emerged, again linked to the same lot of chicken cat food. The severity of these two incidences led the FDA to modify the market withdrawal to the active recall we see today.
The New York City Health Department added to these warnings, indicating connections to brand Savage Cat Food. They reported two cats were diagnosed with or died from bird flu, directly related to the product, and advised against feeding pets these food products. “Avian influenza (bird flu) virus was detected in two cats and potentially also one other connected to Savage Cat Food,” detailed the department's statement. They assured residents the risk to the wider public remained low.
Cat A, which consumed the contaminated product, developed severe respiratory distress and passed away shortly thereafter. Cat B did not eat the food but contracted H5N1 through exposure to Cat A. Meanwhile, Cat C also became ill after eating from the same lot number, yet survived.
All these incidents illuminate serious health risks associated with the avian flu outbreak, leading to heightened scrutiny from health authorities and the animal food industry. The New York department is actively working alongside local, state, and federal officials to trace additional cases and assess potential risks moving forward.
The FDA's and health departments’ recommendations are clear: pet owners should immediately return the affected products to their retailers for full refunds. If you have purchased this lot code, it is imperative to act swiftly to prevent any health complications for both you and your pets.
This situation serves as stark reminder of the connections between animal health and public safety, especially concerning zoonotic diseases like H5N1. The present recall and subsequent health alerts aim to safeguard pets and their owners alike.
