Pet food and pet product recalls: what to do
Why pet food and veterinary medicines get recalled in the UK, how to check your pet's food, and what to do if your pet has eaten something recalled.
Pet food and pet medicines can be recalled just like food for people. Most recalls cover particular batches, so checking the codes on your bag or tin is the first step.
Who issues pet recalls
Pet food recalls are published by the Food Standards Agency, as pet food falls under feed law. Veterinary medicines are covered by the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD). Pet toys, beds and accessories come under general product safety, so their recalls are published by the Office for Product Safety and Standards.
Why pet food gets recalled
- salmonella or other bacteria found in testing, which can affect pets and the people handling the food
- too much or too little of a vitamin or mineral, such as vitamin D
- mould toxins in grain-based foods
- pieces of plastic or metal
Checking your pet’s food
Recall notices list the product name, pack size, batch code and best-before date. These are usually printed on the back or bottom of the bag or tin, sometimes near the seal. Keep the packaging until the food is used up, so you can check it if a recall comes out.
If your pet has eaten recalled food
- Stop feeding it straight away and keep the packaging.
- Watch for signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy or loss of appetite.
- Call your vet if your pet seems unwell, and tell them which product and batch it ate.
Wash your hands after handling recalled pet food, especially if the recall is for salmonella, and clean bowls and scoops thoroughly.
Refunds
Most pet food recalls offer a full refund at the shop where you bought it, usually without a receipt. Online retailers will normally refund to your original payment method. See the latest pet recalls.
More guides
- Register your appliances so you hear about safety recalls
- How to check if a product has been recalled
- Children’s products and toy recalls
- Recall, withdrawal or safety notice: what’s the difference?
This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice. Always follow the official notice for a specific recall. Read our editorial policy or see all guides.