Mars Petcare US Recalls SPECIAL KITTY Gourmet For Salmonella Contamination

Mars Petcare US issued a voluntary recall of select bags of SPECIAL KITTY Gourmet Blend dry cat food sold at Wal-Mart stores in 15 states, due to a positive test result indicating a potential Salmonella contamination.

Pet owners are advised to dispose of the food in a safe manner and return the empty bag to the store of purchase for a full refund.

Salmonella can cause serious infections in both dogs and cats, and, if there is a cross contamination caused by the handing of the contaminated food, people also – especially in young children and people with a compromised immune system.

Pets with Salmonella infections may become lethargic and have diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some cats experience abdominal cramping, decreased appetite and fever. Animals can be carriers without showing any visible symptoms and potentially infect other animals and humans.

If you are concerned that you’re pet may have consumed any of the recalled product and is displaying any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. The company has not received any reports of illness.

Recalled Pet Food:

Product: SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend Dry Cat Food
Best If Used By Date: AUG 11 09
Best If Used By Date Location: Back of bag
Production Lot Code: 50 XXXX X (Found on back of bag just after "Best If Used By" date. Consumers should look for "50" as the first two digits of the second line.)
UPC Code: UPC code numbers can be found directly underneath the bar code on the package. Please find recalled pet food UPC information below.

3.5 lb.	SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend	81131 17546
7 lb.	SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend	81131 17547
18 lb.	SPECIAL KITTY® Gourmet Blend	81131 17548

Affected Stores: Wal-Mart locations in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont, and West Virginia.

Questions regarding the recall can be directed to the company at 1-877-568-4463 or by visiting www.petcare.mars.com.