< Continued from page 1

• How long will it take before symptoms start to show?
  This question will have to be deferred for now, since not enough studies have been completed. I will post a reply as soon as more information is forthcoming.
• I may have fed one of these foods recently, but my cat isn't showing any symptoms yet.
  On the precautionary side, I'd take the cat to the vet and ask for a blood workup, including a kidney panel. If caught in time, veterinary treatment can help avert permanent kidney damage or death.

• My cat died from kidney failure afer eating one of these recalled products. What is my recourse?
  Obviously, I can't offer legal advice, and you should consult an attorney for that. I do know of one lawsuit that has been filed asking for class action status. Also, a new Yahoo Group "Menu Foods Class Action" has recently been formed as a support group with the apparent intent of ultimately filing a class action lawsuit. There are presently 388 members. (Added 3/22/07)
  However, if you have a very sick cat as a result of eating one of these products, or your cat has died you should report it to the FDA. They have a list of phone numbers on their site for this purpose. Don't be surprised if you receive a busy signal, as these appear to be general numbers for all kinds of complaints.
  
• What if I have more questions?
  For specific questions about your cats' health, you should contact your own veterinarian. For more information about the pet food recall, Menu Foods has two hotlines: 1-866-463-6738 and 1-866-895-2708. NOTE: Expect a wait as these lines will be very busy. (Added 3/22/07)

• I'm sick of these money-hungry companies. Who can we trust now?
  As the caregiver for three cats that might have eaten one of these recalled products, I can absolutely understand this kind of emotional response to this current pet food recall.
  However, product recalls of all kinds have almost become a way of life in modern times. I think we're fortunate to have organizations like the FDA to oversee the manufacture of food for both people and pets. Certainly, companies such as Menu Foods don't intentionally insert tainted products in their pet foods. That company alone has estimated the cost of some $30 million to $40 million.
  
  Having said that, my heart goes out to all those people who have lost one or more pets, and I pray that those that are sick will fully recover.
  

This article will be updated periodically as new information is forthcoming. Both Dr. Janet Tobiassen Crosby, About Guide to Veterinary Medicine, and Krista Mifflin, About Guide to Dogs are also following this story. You might want to bookmark all three of these resources, to stay on top of the latest developments.

Back to the Pet Food Recall Index