Mars Petcare US recalls some dry cat food in 15 states

Franklin, Tenn.

-- Mars Petcare US voluntarily recalled a limited number of bags of SPECIAL KiTTY® Gourmet Blend dry cat food sold at Wal-Mart stores in 15 states, following a positive test result indicating potential Salmonella contamination.

There were no reports of illness from consumption or handling of the product, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

The Wal-Mart stores where the product was stocked are in Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, Vermont and West Virginia.

The recalled bags are stamped on the back with a "best if used by" date of Aug. 11, 2009, and a production lot code with "50" as the first two digits of the second line. The UPC code numbers are: 81131 17546 on 3.5-pound bags, 81131 17547 on 7-pound bags and 81131 17548 on 18-pound bags.

Pet owners should dispose of the product in a securely covered trash receptacle and return the empty bag to the store for a full refund, the company said.

Salmonella can cause serious infections in animals and in people who handle the pet food. Human symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever, and occasionally more serious illnesses. Infected pets may be lethargic and have diarrhea, fever and vomiting. Some may show only decreased appetite and fever. Still others can be carriers with no visible symptoms, but infect people or other animals.

For more information about the recall, call 1-877-68-4463 or visit www.petcare.mars.com.