WASHINGTON – A manufacturer recall of 9Lives cat food because of a health risk from low thiamine has been issued, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Ohio-based J.M. Smuckers Co. recalled two versions of these four-packs of 5.5-ounce cans of wet cat food: 9Lives Protein Plus With Tuna & Chicken with a UPC code of 7910021549 and “best if used by date” from March 27, 2020, to Nov.14, 2020 and 9Lives Protein Plus With Tuna & Liver with a UPC code of 7910021748 and “best if used by date” from Arpil 17, 2020, to Sept.14, 2020.
The cat food is low in thiamine, better known as Vitamin B1. An alert from the FDA said:
“Symptoms of deficiency displayed by an affected cat can be gastrointestinal or neurological in nature. Early signs of thiamine deficiency may include decreased appetite, salivation, vomiting, failure to grow, and weight loss. In advanced cases, neurological signs can develop, which include ventroflexion (bending towards the floor) of the neck, mental dullness, blindness, wobbly walking, circling, falling, seizures, and sudden death. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat is displaying any of these symptoms. If treated promptly, thiamine deficiency is typically reversible.”
People should call a veterinarian if the symptoms are seen, the alert said.
To get a refund or a coupon for replacement cat food, complete an online form or call 888-569-6828 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.