Salmonella Contamination in Dry Dog and Cat Foods

Millions of families own dogs and cats, and many pet owners feed their animals dry pet food. Because pet food and pet treats contain ingredients of animal origin, these products are at risk for Salmonella infections, according to a study in the September 2010 print issue of Pediatrics. The study, “Human Salmonella Infections Linked to Contaminated Dry Dog and Cat Food, 2006-2008,” published online Aug. 9, resulted in identification of the first documented outbreak of human Salmonella infections linked to the use of multiple brands of dry dog and cat food from 2006-2008. Seventy-nine patients in 21 states were identified; 48 percent were children aged 2 or younger. Illness among infants was significantly associated with feeding pets in the kitchen, but no association was found between contamination and children putting food in their mouths. Both direct contact with animals, and indirect contact in environments where animals live, wander and keep their food and water dishes can lead to human infections. More than 23,000 tons of dry dog and cat foods were recalled as a result of the outbreak, and after additional outbreaks were identified in 2008, the company permanently closed the manufacturing plant. These outbreaks emphasize the importance of proper storage and handling of pet foods in the home to prevent human illness, especially among young children.