The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) has reported a recent cluster of acute hepatopathy cases in Victorian dogs. Identified through the PetFAST reporting system, the cluster is being investigated as a potential pet food-associated adverse effect.
The AVA advises any veterinarians that suspect a food-associated illness – particularly acute hepatopathy with increased blood ALT and bilirubin concentrations in a dog being fed pet meat – to log this information in the PetFAST system as soon as possible.
Pet owners whose dogs have eaten pet meat (especially if sourced from Victoria) and have acute onset of vomiting, inappetence, excessive thirst or jaundice are being advised to contact their veterinarian as soon as possible.
PetFAST is a joint initiative of the AVA and the Pet Food Industry Association of Australia to identify health problems potentially associated with pet food. To log a case in the PetFAST system, please visit the AVA’s website.