Iams Cat, Kitten Food Recalled
Cats Could Get Sick From Too Little Thiamine in Iams Canned Cat/Kitten Food
By Daniel J. DeNoon
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Laura J. Martin, MD
June 10, 2010 -- Iams ProActive Health canned cat and kitten food contains too little thiamine -- an essential part of the cat diet -- and is being recalled by Procter & Gamble.
The cat food was distributed throughout North America. The recalled product includes all varieties of Iams ProActive Health Cat and Kitten Food in 3 oz. and 5.5 oz. cans.
Dates on the bottom of the recalled cans range from 09/2011 to 06/2012.
Cats have to get plenty of thiamine (vitamin B1). If they don't get enough thiamine, they get sick.
Early symptoms of thiamine deficiency may include:
* Loss of appetite
* Salivation
* Vomiting
* Weight loss
Advanced symptoms of thiamine deficiency may include:
* Downward curving of the neck (ventroflexion)
* Wobbly gait
* Falling
* Circling
* Seizures
If your cat shows any sign of thiamine deficiency, contact your veterinarian immediately. Treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is reversible.
Pet owners who bought the recalled product should throw it out. Refunds are available via a toll-free call to Procter & Gamble weekdays from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. Eastern time at 877-340-8826.