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In March 2025, Savage Pet voluntarily recalled its large and small raw chicken boxes after detecting contamination with the H5N1 bird flu virus. This move is in response to confirmed cases of disease and death among cats in New York City, and initial test results confirmed the H5N1 virus in the products being recalled. The recall is on lot code 11152026 and is on many states such as California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington  [1]

Savage Pet Initiates Recall of Raw Chicken Boxes for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) Contamination

Recall , July 08, 2025

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In March 2025, Savage Pet voluntarily recalled its large and small raw chicken boxes after detecting contamination with the H5N1 bird flu virus. This move is in response to confirmed cases of disease and death among cats in New York City, and initial test results confirmed the H5N1 virus in the products being recalled. The recall is on lot code 11152026 and is on many states such as California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington  [1]

Reason Behind the Recall

The H5N1 strain is highly infectious among birds and has on rare occasions affected mammals like household cats and humans. The link between Savage Pet’s raw chicken product and feline sickness raised critical issues of public and animal health. The virus in the product was confirmed by health authorities, and a Class I recall was initiated to curb further infections.

FDA Involvement

Even though this recall was voluntary by Savage Pet, the FDA has been tracking avian influenza outbreaks and working with state agencies to manage recalls related to zoonotic illnesses such as H5N1. The fact that the virus is found in raw poultry means that raw pet food manufacturers have a difficult time ensuring product safety Washington State Department of Health.

Description of the Recall

  • Manufacturer: Savage Pet (USA)
  • Product Recalled: Raw Chicken Boxes (Large and Small)
  • Lot Number: 11152026
  • Contamination: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) virus
  • Distribution Areas: California, Colorado, New York, Pennsylvania, Washington
  • Reason for Recall: Association with illnesses and deaths in cats caused by H5N1 virus contamination
  • Recall Classification: Class I (the highest risk category for serious health effects)

Product Details:

Brand

Product Name

Size

Lot Code / Best‑By Date

Distribution Area

Reason for Recall

Date of Recall

Savage Pet

Savage Cat Food – Large Boxes

84 oz

Lot 11152026 / Nov 15, 2026

AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, KS, MD, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, PA, UT, WV, WY

Potential H5N1 bird flu virus

March 15, 2025

Savage Pet

Savage Cat Food – Small Boxes

21 oz

Lot 11152026 / Nov 15, 2026

AZ, CA, CO, DC, DE, KS, MD, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OH, PA, UT, WV, WY

Potential H5N1 bird flu virus

March 15, 2025

Consumer Guidance

Identifying Affected Products

Check product labels and expiration dates. If they match the details above, stop use immediately.

 Safe Disposal Practices

  • Do not feed affected food to animals
  • Place it in a sealed bag and dispose of it in a covered trash container
  • Do not compost or discard openly

 Sanitation and Health Protocols

  • Disinfect any containers, utensils, or surfaces that contacted the recalled product
  • Wash hands thoroughly after handling the food or packaging
  • Contact a veterinarian if your pet becomes ill
  • Consult a healthcare provider if humans experience symptoms [3]
Savage Pet Recalls Raw Chicken Due to H5N1 Risk thumbnail

Risks to Pets and Humans

For Pets

Infected cats showed high respiratory illness and abrupt death, typical of H5N1 infection, a virus that is highly lethal in birds and mammals.

For Humans

Human infection with H5N1 is uncommon but can lead to severe respiratory illness. Those who meet contaminated raw pet food, especially those with weakened immune systems, children, and the elderly, are at greater risk. Symptoms can include fever, cough, and severe respiratory distress.

Instructions for Consumers

If you have raw chicken boxes from Savage Pet with lot 11152026:

  • Discontinue feeding the product to your pet immediately.
  • Dispose of the product properly in sealed bags and tightly covered trash cans.
  • Wash any bowls, surfaces, or utensils that touch the food with soap and disinfect them.
  • Wash your hands well after touching the product.
  • Keep an eye on your pet for signs of coughing, tiredness, vomiting, or diarrhea and take them to a veterinarian if you notice any of these.
  • Obtain medical consultation if you experience flu-like illness following contact with the product.

Company Actions

Savage Pet voluntarily recalled the contaminated product and is collaborating closely with federal and state health authorities to identify the source of contamination and put safety protocols in place. The company is modifying raw material procurement and stepping up biosecurity procedures to avoid future contamination.

Significance of the Recall

This recall draws focus to the risks that raw pet foods contaminated with harmful pathogens like H5N1 may pose. It highlights the importance of rigorous quality control, environmental surveillance, and public education on safe handling procedures to safeguard pets and avert zoonotic transmission.

Recommended Actions for Manufacturers

  • Improve test procedures to find viral pathogens in raw material.
  • Enforce stronger supplier verification and ingredient tracking.
  • Increase sanitation and biosecurity measures.
  • Offer thorough contamination prevention training to staff.
  • Keep accurate records for the purpose of recall preparedness.

Urgent Call to Action

Merchants and distributors must take out all affected lot numbers from their stock. Owners of pets are asked to check the lot number and stop using affected products immediately. The pet food sector needs to prioritize biosecurity and readiness to minimize health hazards.

Stay Informed and Report Concerns

For news updates and safety notices, refer to:

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