Wild Coast Raw Recalls Cat Food Due to Bird Flu Contamination
Wild Coast Raw has initiated a recall of several lots of its frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw cat food, following confirmation of contamination with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) H5N1, commonly known as bird flu. The recall was prompted by sampling conducted by the Oregon Department of Agriculture and the Washington State Department of Agriculture, which detected the presence of the virus in both affected cats and the cat food products. This recall follows a similar action taken by Wild Coast Raw in February, after two cats that consumed the brand’s food became severely ill with bird flu and subsequently died.
The current recall focuses on the company’s 16-ounce and 24-ounce frozen Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula raw pet food for cats. The product is packaged in small, round, white plastic containers with a distinctive green label. Consumers who have purchased this product should carefully examine the packaging to determine if their purchase falls within the affected lot numbers.
The specific lot numbers subject to the recall are #22660, #22653, #22641, #22639, #22672, #22664, #22660, and #22664. It is important to note that the best buy date for the affected products is December 2025. This extended best buy date indicates that the recalled product may still be present in consumers’ freezers.
The recalled products were distributed and sold in the states of Washington and Oregon. Consumers in these states who have purchased Wild Coast Raw’s Boneless Free Range Chicken Formula cat food should immediately check the lot number and best buy date to determine if their product is subject to the recall.
Consumer Action and Safety Measures
Wild Coast Raw is urging consumers to take immediate action to protect their pets and themselves. The company is advising consumers to refrain from feeding the recalled product to their cats or any other animals. Instead, the product should be securely discarded to prevent consumption by pets, other animals, or wildlife.
Consumers who have purchased the recalled product are encouraged to contact their place of purchase to request a full refund. Wild Coast Raw is also providing direct contact information for consumers who have questions or concerns. Consumers can reach Wild Coast Raw by email at [email protected] or by phone at 360-591-3543 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.
Pet owners who have fed their cats the recalled product should closely monitor their pets for any signs of illness. Symptoms of bird flu in cats can include fever, lethargy, respiratory distress, neurological signs such as seizures or incoordination, and sudden death. Owners who observe any of these symptoms in their cats after consuming the recalled product should immediately contact their veterinarian for guidance and treatment. The mortality rate for cats infected with bird flu is reported to be high, estimated at 67% according to the University of Maryland’s School of Public Health. Prompt veterinary care is therefore crucial.
Human Health Considerations
While no human infections have been directly linked to handling raw pet food products, it is important to exercise caution. Humans can become infected with bird flu if the virus enters their eyes, nose, or mouth. People who have come into contact with the recalled products should take the following precautions:
- Thoroughly wash their hands with soap and water.
- Sanitize all surfaces that may have come into contact with the recalled product, such as countertops, refrigerators, pet bowls, and utensils.
Common symptoms of bird flu in humans include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, and shortness of breath. In more severe cases, bird flu can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and even death.
People who have been exposed to the recalled products and are experiencing any of these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider and their local health department immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing bird flu infections in humans.
The Broader Context of Bird Flu and Raw Pet Food
This recall highlights the potential risks associated with feeding raw pet food, particularly the risk of contamination with pathogens such as bird flu. While proponents of raw pet food argue that it offers nutritional benefits, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers and to take appropriate precautions.
The presence of bird flu in raw pet food underscores the need for rigorous testing and quality control measures in the pet food industry. Consumers should carefully research pet food brands and choose products from companies that have a strong commitment to safety and quality.
It is also important to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to a pet’s diet, including switching to raw food. A veterinarian can provide guidance on the appropriate diet for a pet based on its individual needs and health status. Furthermore, those who choose to feed raw food should take extra precautions in handling, prepping, and cleaning to limit risks of bacterial or viral transmission to themselves or their families.
