Eleven reports of illness have been associated with a brand of Ainsworth Pet Nutrition. The manufacturer and nationwide distributor of Rachel Ray Nutrish wet cat food has voluntarily recalled five varieties, including Ocean Fish-a-licious, Lip Smackin Sardine & Mackerel, Ocean Fish & Chicken Catch-iatore, Tuna Purrfection, and certain lot codes of Paw Lickin Chicken & Liver due to potentially elevated levels of vitamin D.
Symptoms of excessive vitamin D consumption--an important element in regulating calcium and phosphorus in a cat's body-- usually develop within 12-36 hours after ingestion and may include vomiting or diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, and muscle tremors or seizures. Any cat experiencing these symptoms should be taken to a veterinarian immediately, according to a release from Steve Joyce, a cmopany representative.
In addition to the 12-county chicken lovers variety pack (UPC code 07119000773) and the Ocean Lovers Variety Pack (UPC code 071190007780) with best by date through December 1, 2016, these 2.8 oz. single packs have been recalled with the same date:
- Ocean Fish and Chicken Catch-iatorie (UPC code 071190007049)
- Ocean Fish Alicious (UPC code 071190007056)
- Tuna Purrection (UPC code 071190007063
- Lip Smackin Sardine and Mackerel (UPC code 071190007070)
Paw Lickin Chicken and Liver (UPC code 071190007032) has been recalled, the only recent one dated August 17, 2015.
After conducting a number of product tests, Ainsworth confirmed that the affected products have elevated levels of vitamin D. The high levels result from the natural levels of vitamin D that are found in some of the fish ingredients that were used in these specific formulas.
"At Ainsworth Pet Nutrition and Rachael Ray Nutrish, the safety and quality of our products is our top priority," says Jeff Watters, CEO. "For the time being, we recommend disposing of any of the affected wet cat varieties. Rest assured we have implemented additional operating procedures to prevent an issue like this from occurring in the future. We sincerely apologize to our loyal consumers everywhere."
Consumers with questions about the recall are encouraged to contact Ainsworths Consumer Care Team at (877) 650-3486. Representatives will be available from 8 a.m.9 p.m. ET from Monday thru Friday and 8 a.m.8 p.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday.
Comments