Iams cat food recall offers refunds to consumers

The Procter & Gamble Co. is recalling some lots of its Iams canned cat food because they may have insufficient levels of thiamine -- the vitamin B1.

Consumers who have bought the canned cat food can call the company for a refund, P&G spokesman Jason Taylor tells Consumer Ally. The recall is a precautionary measure after tests showed the low levels in some lots of Iams ProActive Health canned cat and kitten food. All varieties of the product in 3-ounce and 5.5-ounce cans with the dates of 09/2011 to 06/2012 on the can bottoms are included in the recall.

The recall only effects Iams canned cat food distributed in the United States and Canada, Taylor says. Retailers have already been notified and are taking the products off the shelves.

Cats that are fed the products as their only food source are at greater risk of developing thiamine deficiencies. Customers who bought the cat food should discard it and contact the company for a refund. Early signs of thiamine deficiency can include loss of appetite, drooling, vomiting and weight loss. More advanced cases may include wobbly gaits, falling and seizures.

No other Iams product is involved in the recall. Consumers can call P&G at 877-340-8826 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST.