Pet owners across several states are on high alert following a recall of a popular kitten and puppy mix due to potential contamination with salmonella and listeria.
Blue Ridge Beef is recalling over 2,300 pounds of its 2-pound logs of Kitten Mix and Puppy Mix products that were distributed to retail locations throughout the eastern United States and Wisconsin, according to a statement from the Food and Drug Administration.
The products, identified by their clear plastic packaging, were shipped between January 3 and January 24. These states include Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New York, Tennessee, Rhode Island and Wisconsin.
Salmonella and Listeria in pet food can impact the health of both animals eating the product and humans who handle it. The FDA emphasizes that individuals who have come in contact with the recalled food, especially if they have not rigorously washed their hands afterward, are at risk of infection.
Pets infected with Salmonella or Listeria may exhibit signs such as lethargy, diarrhea (potentially containing blood), fever, and vomiting. Some animals might also show a decrease in appetite, fever and abdominal pain.
The FDA cautions that infected pets who are otherwise healthy can become carriers of these bacteria, potentially spreading the infection to other animals and humans. Owners are advised to contact a veterinarian if their pet has consumed the Blue Ridge food mix.
The FDA also outlined potential health risks for humans exposed to the contaminated pet food. Healthy individuals should monitor themselves for common symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (which can be bloody), abdominal cramping and fever.
The agency noted that in rare instances, Salmonella and Listeria can lead to more serious conditions, including arterial infections, endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining), arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. Individuals experiencing any of these more serious signs are advised to contact their healthcare provider, the FDA wrote.
Customers who have purchased the specific 2-pound logs of Kitten Mix or Puppy Mix with the identified distribution dates are advised by the agency to return the pet food mix where it was purchased or destroy the food so that children, pets and wildlife cannot get ahold of it, the statement reads.
Pet food bowls, cups, utensils and storage containers that might have come in contact with the product should also be washed.
Consumers who wish to learn more information can contact Blue Ridge Beef by emailing blueridgebeefnc@yahoo.com or calling 704-873-2072 Monday through Friday anytime from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
