KENYA – The Kenya Small and Companion Animals Veterinary Association (KESCAVA), a specialized branch of the Kenya Veterinary Association, recently issued a critical aflatoxin poisoning alert for pet owners nationwide.
According to reports from licensed veterinary surgeons nationwide, there has been a significant increase in cases of aflatoxin poisoning in pets.
KESCAVA took to Instagram to raise awareness among pet owners, cautioning them to be vigilant about the commercial or homemade pet food they provide their companion animals. They emphasized the importance of proper storage to prevent aflatoxin contamination.
“Watch out on what commercial or homemade pet food you give to your pets and ensure proper storage to avoid aflatoxin poisoning,” the association warned.
KESCAVA provides that pet owners should be alert for symptoms of aflatoxicosis, which include sluggishness, loss of appetite, vomiting, jaundice (a yellowish tint to the eyes, gums, or skin due to liver damage), unexplained bruising or bleeding, and diarrhea.
KESCAVA advises pet owners to contact a veterinarian immediately if any of these signs are observed.
Weather conditions and pet food storage
Ela Veterinary Clinic, a reputable animal hospital in Kenya, also highlighted the risks associated with the current weather conditions, which can exacerbate aflatoxin contamination.
“With the current weather conditions, our pets are prone to adverse effects. Grain diets are most affected since the moisture content encourages the growth of mold, which makes the food go bad and causes aflatoxicosis,” the clinic posted on Instagram.
Ela Veterinary Clinic recommends storing all pet food in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and heat to mitigate these risks.
They also advised pet owners to seek diagnostic tests and immediate treatment if they suspect any signs of aflatoxicosis, stressing that timely intervention can save lives.
This alert comes at a time when pet owners are taking exceptional care of their companion animals, and issues of food and feed safety have taken center stage globally.
Humanization of pets and premiumization of pet food are also emergent trends encouraging pet owners to ensure the safety and quality of their pets’ food.
As the country grapples with these increased reports of aflatoxin poisoning, pet owners are urged to take these warnings seriously to ensure the health and safety of their beloved companions.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.
