Why should I be concerned about Pet Jerky Treats?

 Article by Dr. Zoe Forward & Dr. Elizabeth Broel

                The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has received over 5,000 complaints of possible Salmonella infection in pets that ate sweet potato, chicken, or duck jerky treats from China since 2007.  As of May 16, 2014, the FDA has received complaints affecting over 5,600 dogs, resulting in at least 1,000 dog deaths.  Additionally, 24 cats and three people have reportedly been infected from the contaminated treats.  While the FDA is actively investigating and testing treats, authorities have not yet identified the source of the Salmonella contamination and are not releasing brands of treats that may be affected.  In the process of testing treats for Salmonella contamination, authorities have also identified a drug called amantadine in many treats containing chicken.  Amantadine is a drug used to treat viruses in humans and pain in companion animals, but is illegal for use in poultry.

                Salmonella is a bacterial disease that is considered zoonotic, meaning it is contagious between animals and humans.  Salmonella infections are typically associated with eating contaminated or undercooked food, and can cause gastrointestinal disease including diarrhea, fever, decreased appetite, dehydration.  In some cases Salmonella infections can cause kidney disease, or in severe cases death.  Pet owners, especially children, the elderly, and individuals who are immunocompromised, can be infected by contaminated treats either through direct contact with the treat or through contact with the feces of an infected animal.  Pets that ingest contaminated foods or treats will develop symptoms in 1-3 days, meaning some pets can appear healthy and still carry Salmonella germs.  Pet owners can greatly decrease their risk of Salmonella infection by thoroughly washing hands after handling any pet, pet food or pet treat, and washing all pet food and water bowls with soap and water after each use.    

Animals with suspected Salmonella infection or exposure should be evaluated by a veterinarian immediately.  Pet owners with possible exposure or infection should visit their healthcare provider as soon as possible.  The FDA is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and private veterinarians to identify cases of Salmonella related to the jerky treats, but officials warn that manufacturers are not required to label the country of origin for each individual ingredient in their product.  Treats can contain products originating from other countries, including China, even if not listed on the label.  Because pet jerky treats are not required as part of a pet’s balanced diet, pet owners are urged to consult their veterinarian before feeding treats to their pets.

 

 

For more information about Salmonella, visit the CDC at http://www.cdc.gov/salmonella/general/index.html and http://www.cdc.gov/features/salmonelladrypetfood/. 

FDA information about jerky treats can be found at http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/Products/AnimalFoodFeeds/PetFood/default.htm and http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/default.htm. 


If you suspect your pet has been exposed to a contaminated treat and need to report a pet food complaint to the FDA, visit http://www.fda.gov/animalveterinary/safetyhealth/reportaproblem/ucm182403.htm