Questions
and Answers Related to this Outbreak and Pets:
How do
I know if my dog or cat has Salmonella related to this outbreak?
If
you have fed your dog or cat Peter Pan/Great Value
peanut butter with the product code “2111” stamped
on the lid, please look for the following signs.
Dogs and cats that become ill from Salmonella generally
will have diarrhea that may contain blood or mucus
and fever. Affected animals may seem more
tired than usual, and may have vomiting. Some
cats do not have diarrhea, but will have a decreased
appetite, fever, and excess salivation.
If your dog or cat has these
signs, please
contact your veterinarian. Do not feed
anymore of the above mentioned peanut butter to
your pet. Throw away the peanut butter.
How are Salmonella infections
diagnosed and treated in dogs and cats?
A stool sample can be tested
to diagnose Salmonellosis along with oral cavity
swabs and identification of the organism in blood. Salmonella infections
require prompt treatment with supportive care and
fluids. Treatment of Salmonellosis with antibiotics
is necessary for severe cases.
What can
I do to prevent the spread of Salmonella from my pets?
Salmonella can be shed in the stool
of pets for 4-6 weeks after infection. If your
pet is diagnosed with Salmonella, please talk to your veterinarian
about taking precautions to minimize spread of
the germ. Be careful to pick up stool and
dispose of properly. Wash your hands after petting
and cleaning up after your pet, particularly before
eating or preparing food. A mild bleach solution
can be used to clean areas that may be contaminated
with Salmonella.
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