Federal health officials are recalling a dog food product that has led to the poisoning of more than two dozen pets that have died and left several more sick.
The FDA has issued a warning to pet owners and veterinary professionals about certain batches of Sportmix feed products that may contain fatal levels of aflatoxin, which can grow on corn and grains and poison animals.
According to the FDA, on Wednesday, December 30, Midwestern Pet Food, Inc. announced a recall of certain products after the FDA was alerted to reports of at least 28 dogs that died and eight that fell ill due to consumption collected items.
When tested, items subject to recall had very high levels of aflatoxin, which is a toxin produced by the fungus Aspergillus flavus.
Symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning include sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice or diarrhea. In the most severe cases, the disease can be fatal, as pets sometimes suffer long-term liver damage without symptoms.
“Pets are highly susceptible to aflatoxin poisoning because, unlike people, who eat a varied diet, pets generally eat the same food continuously for long periods of time,” noted the FDA. “If a pet’s food contains aflatoxin, the toxin can build up in the animal’s system as they continue to eat the same food.”
Recovered items:
- Sportmix Energy Plus, 50 pound bag;
- Sportmix Energy Plus, 44 pound bag;
- Sportmix Premium High Energy, 50 pound bag;
- Sportmix Premium High Energy, 44 pound bag;
- Sportmix Original Cat, 31 pound bag;
- Sportmix Original Cat, 15 pound bag.
The FDA warned that the collected products may still be on pet owners’ shelves or in stores. The collected pet food mixtures were distributed to online retailers and stores across the country.
“If your pet shows symptoms of aflatoxin poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately,” noted health officials. “Even pets without symptoms may have suffered liver damage, so you may want to contact your veterinarian if your dog has eaten any of the products collected while providing your veterinarian with a complete diet history.”
“There is no evidence to suggest that pet owners who handle products containing aflatoxin are at risk of aflatoxin poisoning,” added the FDA. “However, pet owners should always wash their hands after handling any feed.”
The FDA noted that the investigation is ongoing and that the scope of the recall could be expanded and the death toll could increase as new information becomes available. Veterinarians who suspect aflatoxin poison have been asked to contact the FDA while the case continues.
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