Rachael Ray Nutrish Cat Food Recall Issued

Cat owners should not feed their cat certain varieties of Rachael Ray Nutrish wet cat food because elevated levels of vitamin D found in the product have caused serious illness, prompting the manufacturer to issue a cat food recall.

Ainsworth Pet Nutrition of Meadville, Penn. is recalling five varieties of Rachael Ray™ Nutrish® wet cat food due to potentially elevated levels of vitamin D in the product. Varieties affected by the cat food recall include Ocean Fish-a-licious, Lip Smackin’ Sardine & Mackerel, Ocean Fish & Chicken Catch-iatore, Tuna Purrfection, and certain lot codes of Paw Lickin’ Chicken & Liver. These products were distributed nationwide for individual sale and also part of a variety pack.

Cat owners should immediately stop feeding these products to their pet. According to the manufacturer, symptoms of excessive vitamin D consumption usually develop within 12-36 hours after ingestion and may include vomiting or diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, and muscle tremors or seizures. Any cat experiencing these symptoms should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.

Consumers can identify the recalled Nutrish cat food by finding the UPC code on the bottom of the cup and Best By Date on the side of the cup.

Rachael Ray Nutrish Cat Food Recall Affected Products:

Ainsworth has suspended production of these products.

No other Rachael Ray Nutrish pet food products are affected by the recall.

“At Ainsworth Pet Nutrition and Rachael Ray Nutrish, the safety and quality of our products is our top priority,” says Jeff Watters, CEO. “For the time being, we recommend disposing of any of the affected wet cat varieties. Rest assured we have implemented additional operating procedures to prevent an issue like this from occurring in the future. We sincerely apologize to our loyal consumers everywhere.”

Consumers may return recalled Rachael Ray Nutrish cat food to the place of purchase, or contact the company to receive coupons for new product. Consumers with questions about the recall are encouraged to contact Ainsworth’s Consumer Care Team at 877-650-3486 or visit www.nutrishforpets.com/news.

The manufacturer received eleven reports of cats becoming ill from Rachael Ray Nutrish wet cat food. Ainsworth tested the products and confirmed that the affected products have elevated levels of vitamin D. The high levels result from the natural levels of vitamin D that are found in some of the fish ingredients that were used in these specific formulas.

Ainsworth is working with retailers to ensure the removal of all affected products from store shelves. Retailers with affected products are asked to contact 888-943-4218 for additional information.