Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 1st March 2017
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Pets at Home recalls cat food due to low thiamine levels
Pets at Home has sent a notification to all vets to be aware of the atypical symptoms and potential for thiamine deficiency.
Vets urged to be aware of the atypical symptoms of deficiency
 
Pets at Home has recalled four of its dry cat food products after tests confirmed that they contain lower levels of thiamine (vitamin B) than is specified in the recipe.

The affected products are:
  • AVA Veterinary Approved Grain Free Mature 7+ Cat Food Optimum Health (2kg).
  • Product code: 7120400

  • AVA Veterinary Approved Grain Free Mature 7+ Cat Food Optimum Health (4kg)
  • Product code: 712401

  • AVA Veterinary Approved Grain Free Senior 12+ Cat Food Optimum Health (2kg)
  • Product code:712402

  • AVA Veterinary Approved Grain Free Adult Cat Food Indoor/Neutered (1.5kg)
  • Product code: 712407

Writing on its Facebook page, the retailer said that it became aware of the problem when three cats became seriously unwell after their owners switched to the affected products.

‘All three cats exhibited symptoms of sudden collapse, fitting, widespread twitching and general unsteadiness which are not the classic symptoms of thiamine deficiency’ they write.

‘As pet lovers ourselves we recognise that you will be concerned about your own cat. If you have concerns that your cat may be showing any of these symptoms after switching to one of the four affected products then you should stop feeding and seek immediate veterinary advice.’

Pets at Home has sent a notification to all vets to be aware of the atypical symptoms and potential for thiamine deficiency. Point of sale notices have also been placed in all affected stores and information has been made available on its website.

The retailer urges anyone who has purchased any of the listed products to return it to where they bought it for a full refund or call 0200 328 4204.  

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

SPVS and FIVP launch VSA survey

News Story 1
 SPVS and FIVP have collaborated to launch a short survey about the proposed reform of the Veterinary Surgeons Act.

The survey will ensure that each organisation's submission accurately represents the experiences of practising veterinary professionals. It will also explore awareness, use and perceived value of the roles undertaken by the RCVS.

It takes around 5-10 minutes to complete, and all responses are anonymous. The survey can be completed here until Thursday, 19 March 2026. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS annual renewal fee for vets due

RCVS' annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons is now due. Vets must pay their renewal fee before Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This year's standard annual fee has increased to 431 from last year's 418. This is an approximately three per cent increase, as approved by RCVS Council and the Privy Council.

Tshidi Gardner, RCVS treasurer, said: "The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development."

A full breakdown of the new fees is on the RCVS website. Information about tax relief is available on the UK government website.