A dangerous problem in tainted pet treats has veterinarians and pet owners more worried than ever. And now, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is asking anyone whose pet has become sick after eating treats – sold as jerky tenders or strips made of chicken, duck, sweet potatoes or dried fruit – to report it.
The FDA says since 2007, it has received reports of illnesses in 3,600 dogs and cats. At least 580 have died. The pet treats in question were sold under a wide variety of brand names, and the agency is not issuing a recall or naming specific brands. But it says most have been made in China, and notes that manufacturers are not required to list the country of origin for ingredients on pet food labels.
Officials aren’t sure why pets are falling ill after eating these treats. So far, tests to determine if there is a toxin or other contaminant have been inconclusive. The FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has run more than 1,200 tests, visited pet treat manufacturing plants in China and worked with researchers, state labs and foreign governments, but still has no answers.
“This is one of the most elusive and mysterious outbreaks we’ve encountered,” said one official.
Ill dogs show signs of lethargy, decreased activity and decreased appetite within hours of eating one of these products. More serious symptoms may follow, including moderate to severe indigestion and increased water consumption and/or increased urination.
The FDA asks pet owners and veterinarians to report any suspicious cases and to save samples of any suspicious treats for analysis. To make a report, contact the Northern California FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator at (510) 337-6741.
