Cat Food Recall 2021: Salmonella Fears Force Recall Of Pet Food Nationwide

Following a string of recalls for pet food from Midwestern Pet Foods that left several animals sick and many others dead due to a mold toxin back in January, Natural Balance Pet Foods has recalled two lots of its cat food due to a possible Salmonella contamination.

The affected cat food from Natural Balance was distributed nationwide at retailers and online.

The recalled cat food includes five-pound bags of Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food with a UPC code of 2363306234 and a lot number of 1008080 06:42N811202:20 located on the back panel of the packaging.

Also affected by the recall are 10-pound bags of Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Green Pea & Chicken Formula Dry Cat Food with a UPC code of 2363300235 and a lot code of 1008080 06:42N811202:20 located on the back panel of the packaging.

The best buy date of both cat foods is March 10, 2022. Labels of pet food can be viewed here.

Salmonella infection in cats can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, fever, or excessive salivation. Some cats can also spread these infections to other animals or humans even if they do not appear to be sick from the bacteria. Pets that display these symptoms should see a veterinarian.

Humans can also become infected with Salmonella by handling contaminated pet products, especially if they do not wash their hands after coming in contact with it. Symptoms of Salmonella infection in people can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping, and fever.

In rare instances, people can develop serious conditions from the bacteria, such as arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation, and urinary tract symptoms. It is advised that anyone that has these symptoms contact their healthcare provider.

The company is urging consumers to stop feeding their cats the recalled pet food and dispose of the product immediately. They may also return it to the place of purchase for a refund. Natural Balance said all of its products have a 100% guarantee, and all returned food will receive a full refund.

Questions about the recall can be directed to Natural Balance at 1-833-558-0908, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PST or by visiting www.naturalbalanceinc.com/contact-us.

In a statement about the recall, Natural Balance said, “The health and well-being of the pets that enjoy our Natural Balance pet foods is our priority. Our company and our team take seriously our responsibility to provide safe, wholesome, nutritious pet foods for dogs and cats.”

The company said it has not received any reports of illness from the recalled food to date. No other Natural Balance products are impacted by the recall, the company said.

The possible Salmonella risk was discovered during routine sampling conducted by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. The voluntary recall is being conducted in cooperation with Food and Drug Administration.