UK Cat Food Recall: Essential Information for Cat Owners

If you are a cat owner or know someone with a cat, it’s crucial to be aware of the recent UK cat food recall involving certain products from the Pets at Home "Ava" range. This recall comes following reports of severe health issues in cats that consumed these products.

1. Overview of the Pets at Home Ava Range Recall

Pets at Home has issued a recall for four specific products within their in-house “Ava” cat food range sold exclusively in their stores. These products were linked to cats experiencing acute symptoms such as collapse, twitching, fitting, and unsteadiness. Immediate action is necessary if you have any of these affected items at home.

• Ava mature cat (chicken) 2kg - Code 7120400
• Ava mature cat (chicken) 4kg - Code 7120401
• Ava senior cat (chicken) 2kg - Code 712402
• Ava adult cat (neutered, indoor) 1.5kg - Code 7120407

If you have these products, stop feeding them immediately, dispose of any remaining food securely, and return the packaging to Pets at Home for a full refund.

2. Understanding the Recall Cause: Thiamine Deficiency

The recall was prompted by discovery that affected foods contained dangerously low levels of vitamin B1 (thiamine), essential for feline health. The packaging incorrectly listed the vitamin content, and the deficiency can cause damage to the brainstem leading to severe neurological symptoms or even death if untreated.

Thiamine is a vital B vitamin requiring close attention in cat diets, as cats cannot synthesise it sufficiently themselves. A balanced, complete food must contain adequate thiamine levels to prevent serious health issues.

3. Recognising Symptoms in Cats

Cats affected by the Ava range foods developed symptoms after eating the food for 4 to 6 weeks. These symptoms include sudden collapse, twitching, seizures (fitting), and general unsteadiness. Notably, these symptoms are atypical for thiamine deficiency, so vigilance is paramount.

If you notice any changes in your cat’s behaviour or health, especially if they have eaten any recalled food, contact your vet immediately and inform them of the recall.

4. What to Do If You Have the Affected Food

1. Stop feeding your cat the affected Ava products immediately.
2. Safely dispose of any leftover food where pets cannot access it.
3. Take the empty packaging to your nearest Pets at Home store for a full refund.
4. If your cat shows any signs of illness, seek urgent veterinary care and mention the recall.
5. Contact Pets at Home to inform them if your cat has required veterinary treatment related to this issue; they should cover associated costs.

5. Switching to Safe Alternatives

Switch your cat to a nutritionally complete food with adequate thiamine levels. If your cat requires hypoallergenic or specialised diets, consult your vet for recommendations on suitable alternatives.

It’s always best to choose cat foods from reputable sources, made to meet strict UK pet food regulations to ensure safety and nutritional adequacy.

6. Key Takeaways for Responsible Cat Ownership

• Regularly check for product recalls and stay informed about pet food safety alerts.
• Ensure your cat’s diet is complete and balanced with all essential nutrients, especially vitamins like thiamine.
• Observe your cat closely for any unusual behaviours or symptoms and seek veterinary advice without delay.
• Support ethical pet food companies and buy from trusted retailers to reduce risks associated with contamination or mislabelling.

By staying informed and acting promptly, you can safeguard your cat’s health and well-being. Remember, early recognition of symptoms and timely veterinary care can save lives.