Savage Pet, a raw cat food maker, has updated its statement to customers following concerns about a case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) linked to its product in Colorado.
In February, a cat fed Savage Cat Food in Colorado fell ill with HPAI but later recovered. Genetic testing on sealed packets of the raw cat food showed “not negative” results for the H5N1 bird flu variant using PCR testing. However, further virus isolation tests by a federal lab in March came back negative for H5N1.
In its updated letter to consumers, Savage Pet explained the situation:
The company learned of one cat in Colorado that contracted bird flu, became sick, and recovered. Colorado State University tested specific chicken packets (lot number 11152026) using PCR, which produced “not negative” results. These packets were sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa, for additional testing, which confirmed negative results on March 6.
Savage Pet emphasized its commitment to pet health. The company states all poultry ingredients are USDA inspected and approved. Its suppliers follow the National Poultry Improvement Plan and operate under daily USDA inspection. Savage Pet also highlighted nearly a decade of strict manufacturing and sanitation practices.
The company expressed confidence that its supply chain and pathogen controls effectively ensure product safety.
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