Cat Food Recalled Over Potential Salmonella Contamination

A company has voluntarily recalled some of its pet food products because of a possible health risk. The dry cat foods may be contaminated with Salmonella.

The recall affects certain HEB Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food products, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The potential contaminants may pose a health risk for pets, as well as people, particularly if they hadn't washed their hands properly after handling the products or the surfaces that have come in contact with them.

"We routinely test the manufacturing environment for Salmonella, and we have strict procedures in place to ensure cleanliness," TFP Nutrition said. "However, in rare instances like this one, a microscopic organism such as Salmonella finds its way into the manufacturing process."

If your pets are displaying symptoms such as lethargy, diarrhea, fever, vomiting or decreased appetite after consuming the recalled product, you should contact a veterinarian.

It's also possible for pets to carry the germs while still appearing "clean and healthy," according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One of the key ways to avoid getting Salmonella from animals is to wash one's hands properly "immediately after touching animals."

"The voluntary limited recall of this product was initiated as a precautionary measure, to ensure only quality product is available and to protect the health and safety of pet owners and their pets," the company noted. "Please contact your healthcare professional if you have any concerns about being exposed or infected with Salmonella."

So far, there have been no reports of either pet or human illnesses related to the recalled product.

The recall affects the 16-lb H-E-B Texas Pets Indoor Complete Dry Cat Food manufactured on Nov. 13 at the company's Nacogdoches, Texas, facility. They were sold only at HEB retail stores in Texas and can be identified by the date code "MFG 13 NOV 22" on the lot code at the back of the package.

Photos of the product's packaging, including lot code, are available on both the FDA and company websites.

Affected products have been removed from stores, the company said, clarifying that "no other HEB products are affected by the voluntary recall." It was also "not aware of any reason" to expand the recall.

The CDC has asked pet owners to not give recalled products to animals.

Customers can return the affected pet food to their local H-E-B store. Those who have questions about the recall can contact the company at 1-800-560-9197.