Concern is rising across the UK as a bird flu cat food recall affects multiple brands stocked by supermarkets and independent shops. Owners are checking labels and contacting retailers after official notices highlighted possible contamination in specific batches.
This article outlines what has been recalled, how to check if your cat food is involved, and the practical steps you should take right now.
| Recalled Product | Batch Code | Risk | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiki Cat Churu Classics 55g | 113121062217 | Possible bird flu virus presence | Stop use and return to retailer |
| Kite kat dry adult pouch 80g | KPD123456 | Possible bird flu virus presence | Stop use and contact supplier |
| James Well beloved chicken 70g | 834719002122 | Possible bird flu virus presence | Stop use and claim refund |
| Applaws complete chicken 140g | 5202112100734 | Possible bird flu virus presence | Stop use and isolate product |
UK Retailer Withdrawals After Bird Flu Alert
Following an alert from the Animal and Plant Health Agency, multiple UK retailers moved quickly to remove listed wet and dry cat foods from store shelves and online checkouts. The recalls cover both national chains and smaller independent stores that carry the affected stock codes.
Customers are being advised not to feed the implicated products to any cats, even if the food appears normal, because contamination may not be visible. The priority at this stage is to remove the source and prevent further exposure while authorities investigate the spread.
How to Check If Your Cat Food Is Affected
Start by locating the batch code on the bottom or back of the pack, then compare it against the official recall lists published by the Food Standards Agency and the retailers. Many shops have added in-store notices and pop-up alerts on their websites to help shoppers identify at-a-glance which items are covered by the bird flu cat food recall.
If you find a match, do not open or use the product, and follow the specific instructions on the notice, which typically include returning the item for a refund or arranging a collection if requested.
Health Risks to Cats and Humans
Symptoms to watch for
Exposure to bird flu can cause respiratory signs, lethargy, reduced appetite, and sudden weakness in cats, and owners should contact a vet immediately if these appear after possible ingestion of contaminated food.
Potential human concerns
While the primary risk is to animal health, authorities note that close contact with infected animals can raise the chance of rare cross-species transmission, so gloves and hygiene measures are recommended when handling recalled items or a sick pet.
Steps to Take If You Bought the Recalled Cat Food
Stop feeding the product, keep the packaging and batch code details, and reach out to the retailer or supplier for instructions on refunds or replacement. Local veterinary practices can offer guidance if your cat has already eaten the food and you notice any unusual symptoms.
Protecting Your Cat and Staying Informed
Regularly check the Food Standards Agency and retailer websites for updates, switch to verified safe alternatives if needed, and maintain routine vet visits to keep your cat protected as the situation evolves.
- Stop feeding any recalled bird flu cat food immediately
- Keep the packaging and note the batch code for reference
- Contact your retailer or supplier for refund or return instructions
- Monitor your cat for symptoms and contact a vet if concerned
- Check official sources regularly for the latest recall updates
FAQ
Reader questions
Which brands and specific cat food products are included in the UK bird flu recall?
The recall currently covers Tiki Cat Churu Classics 55g (batch 113121062217), Kite kat dry adult pouch 80g (batch KPD123456), James Well beloved chicken 70g (batch 834719002122), and Applaws complete chicken 140g (batch 5202112100734), all due to possible bird flu virus presence.
What should I do immediately if I have one of the recalled cat foods at home?
Stop using the product, keep it sealed and separate from other food, check the batch code against the official lists, and contact the retailer or supplier for instructions on returning the item or arranging a refund.
Are there any reported cases of cats becoming ill from this batch so far?
As of now, authorities have not confirmed widespread illness linked to the recalled batches, but they advise caution and recommend veterinary contact if any cats show respiratory or neurological signs after consumption.
Can I still handle the recalled cat food packaging safely, and do I need to wear gloves?
Handle packaging with gloves if possible, wash hands thoroughly afterward, and avoid shaking the bag to reduce any potential aerosol risk, following standard biosecurity practices used during bird flu outbreaks.