RECALL: Another Cat Food Brand Has Potential Bird Flu Risk

At the beginning of the month, Wild Coast Raw recalled some cat food due to the potential risk of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1 (more commonly called bird flu). However, this isn't the only cat food brand dealing with this issue. On March 15th, 2025, the FDA announced a recall for some Savage Cat Food for the same reason.

Which Cat Food Products Were Recalled?

Savage Pet of El Cajon, CA recalled certain lots of Savage Cat Food Large Chicken Boxes and Small Chicken Boxes. The affected boxes have a lot code/best by date of 11152026. In total, 66 of the large 84-ounce boxes and 74 of the small 21-ounce boxes were affected.

The recalled products were shipped to retailers in AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, KS, MD, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, PA, UT, WV and WY in November 2024. The products are cardboard boxes with individual plastic packets inside. The lot code/best by date appears on the bottom of every packet. The recalled products have been removed from the market.

Back in February, Savage Cat Food learned of a cat in Colorado who contracted bird flu and ate the food. After testing the food, Colorado State University Laboratory found that the food tested as "non-negative." It was then sent to National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Iowa to confirm the results. Later, Savage Cat Food learned of a kitten who also contracted bird flu while eating the food.

While further research is ongoing, a recall was issued out of an abundance of caution. Currently, no other Savage Cat Food products have been affected by this recall.

What are the Risks Associated with Bird Flu?

If your cat ate the recalled food, look for unusual symptoms like fever, lethargy, decreased appetite, irritated eyes, excessive eye discharge, and breathing issues. In extreme cases, cats could experience tremors, stiff body movements, seizures, coordination issues, and vision impairments. Contact your vet right away if any of these symptoms occur.

Humans can also get infected by handling the recalled food. Some symptoms could include eye irritation, coughing, excessive sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, headaches, fever, fatigue, breathing problems, rashes, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Luckily, there are no reported human illnesses related to this recall, but it's good to visit a medical professional right away if something feels off.

What to Do with the Recalled Food

Always thoroughly wash your hands after handling pet food, especially recalled food. Sanitize any surfaces that the food touched, such as counters, bowls, storage containers, and measuring cups.

Don't feed the product to your pets, and don't sell or donate it. If you have the recalled food, return it to your place of purchase for a full refund. They will properly dispose of the food there.

If you have questions about the recall, you can contact Savage Cat Food at info@savagecatfood.com or 619-270-0295.

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