Petco and PetSmart Will No Longer Sell Treats Made In China

Petco and PetSmart have vowed to stop selling treats made in China. In a recent report, the United States Food and Drug Administration revealed that thousands of pets were sickened by treats imported from China. In an effort to protect consumers, and their beloved pets, Petco and PetSmart will no longer sell treats manufactured in China.

Early this week, the FDA announced that more than 5,000 dogs, 24 cats, and several humans, became ill after consuming pet jerky treats. A vast majority of the products were chicken jerky treats, which were imported from China.

As reported by Seattle Times, 60 percent of the illnesses reported were gastrointestinal, including nausea and vomiting. More than 70 dogs were eventually diagnosed with a rare, but dangerous, kidney disease. Other experienced a variety of symptoms, including urinary problems, skin irritation, and convulsions.

In an attempt to identify the common factor, the imported treats were tested for a variety of known toxins. Researchers identified several antibiotics and an antiviral drug in several brands of imported treats. Although the FDA issued a warning to Chinese manufacturers, the issue has continued to persist.

PetSmart spokeswoman Erin Gray has confirmed that the pet supply retailer “will no longer sell dog and cat treats manufactured in China.” She further explained that PetSmart believes it is “the right thing to do for pets and [their] customers.”

Petco made a similar decision. CEO Jim Myer discusses the decision:

“… we’ve been actively reducing our China-made assortment and expanding our American-made offerings… As a leader in the industry and the trusted partner for our pet parents, we’re eager to make this transition and to expand our assortment of safe and healthy treats… Very simply, we feel this decision is in the best interest of the pets we all love… “

Although Petco and PetSmart will no longer sell treats made in China, they will likely be available from other retailers.

In a public announcement, the FDA cautioned consumers about the products. Pet owners are encouraged to limit their pet’s consumption of treats in general, as they are not meant to supplement meals.

Consumers are cautioned to monitor their pets’ behavior after consuming treats. Warning signs include loss of appetite, decreased activity, vomiting, diarrhea, and increased thirst. If the symptoms persist more than 24 hours, pet owners are urged to seek medical attention.

Although most pets recover from the illness, Petco and PetSmart will no longer offer treats manufactured in China, as they are simply not worth the risk.

[Image via Shutterstock]