Aflatoxin Poisoning in Pets; What to Know

Recalls due to aflatoxin contamination have been there in a couple of years. You might be wondering why such recalls have been there and have continued to occur, the truth is that preventable measures can be implemented to avoid recalls associated with contaminants like aflatoxin.

Its tragically and incredibly frustrating for pet parents and those involved in the pet industry when pets fall ill or pass away.

As a pet owner what essentials information shall you be aware of? Well, lets dive into the fundamentals

WHAT ARE AFLATOXINS?

Aflatoxins are a group of toxic compounds produced by specific molds, primarily Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These molds thrive in warm, humid environments, making crops susceptible to contamination in tropical and subtropical regions where temperatures and moisture levels are high. Aflatoxins are considered potent carcinogens, and their presence in food and animal feed has serious implications for both human and animal health. When conditions are favorable for fungal growth, aflatoxins can accumulate in crops like maize, peanuts, rice, tree nuts, and even some spices. This contamination often happens during pre-harvest in the field or post-harvest if crops are stored improperly.

One of the primary health concerns associated with aflatoxins is their impact on the liver. Aflatoxin B1, one of the most toxic forms, is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Long-term exposure to aflatoxins is associated with an increased risk of liver cancer, especially in pets with preexisting liver conditions or hepatitis B infection. Acute exposure to high levels can lead to aflatoxicosis, a condition characterized by liver failure, jaundice, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, death.

Several factors can influence a pet’s susceptibility to aflatoxicosis, these factors include

1. Species and Breed Sensitivity: Different species and breeds exhibit varying levels of susceptibility to aflatoxins. Dogs, especially those with smaller body sizes, are particularly vulnerable to aflatoxicosis due to their liver metabolism and sensitivity to toxins. Certain breeds, such as Labrador Retrievers, may have increased susceptibility due to breed-specific metabolic differences.
2. Age and Health Status: Younger pets and those with compromised immune systems or pre-existing liver conditions are more vulnerable to aflatoxin toxicity. Their liver function and detoxification processes may not be as efficient as those in healthy adult pets, increasing the risk of severe aflatoxicosis.
3. Dose and Duration of Exposure: The amount of aflatoxin ingested and the duration of exposure significantly impact toxicity. Acute aflatoxicosis occurs with high, short-term exposure, often resulting in rapid and severe symptoms. Chronic exposure to low doses over time can lead to liver damage, cancer, or weakened immunity.
4. Diet Quality and Food Source: Pets fed low-quality food or food stored in poor conditions are more likely to ingest aflatoxin-contaminated products. Pet foods made from grains such as corn or peanuts are particularly at risk of aflatoxin contamination. Improper storage conditions, such as warm or humid environments, can promote mold growth and toxin production.
5. Nutritional Status: Pets with poor nutritional status, including deficiencies in protein, vitamins, or antioxidants, are less capable of detoxifying aflatoxins. Nutritional factors like Vitamin E, selenium, and other antioxidants play roles in neutralizing free radicals produced by aflatoxin metabolism, which can otherwise damage liver cells.
6. Genetic and Individual Variability: Genetic differences in liver enzyme activity influence an individual pet’s ability to detoxify aflatoxins. Some pets may naturally metabolize and eliminate toxins more effectively than others, affecting their susceptibility to toxic effects.

If you suspect your pet has eaten food contaminated with aflatoxins or any other toxin, here’s what you should do:

1. Remove Access to the Contaminated Food: Immediately take away any food you believe to be contaminated. Store it in a sealed bag or container to prevent further exposure and contact your vet
2. Observe for Symptoms: Common signs of aflatoxicosis in pets, especially in dogs, include:
   • Loss of appetite
   • Vomiting and diarrhea (sometimes with blood)
   • Lethargy or weakness
   • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
   • Dark urine
   • Unexplained bruising or bleeding
   • Swelling of the abdomen (due to liver enlargement)
3. Contact Your Veterinarian Immediately: Even if symptoms haven’t appeared yet, contacting a vet is essential. Aflatoxins can lead to acute liver damage, so early intervention is crucial. Let them know about the suspected contamination and any symptoms your pet is showing.
4. Provide Details to the Vet: Be ready to provide information on:
   • The type and brand of food your pet consumed
   • How much they may have eaten
   • The timeframe of exposure
   • Any symptoms you’ve observed
5. Testing and Supportive Care: The vet will perform blood tests, liver enzyme tests, or other diagnostics to assess the level of toxin exposure. Treatments may include activated charcoal (to limit absorption), IV fluids, medications to support liver function, and sometimes specific antidotes if available.
6. Monitor at Home: If your vet provides home care instructions, such as dietary restrictions or supplements, follow them closely and watch for any changes in your pet’s condition. Check back with your vet if new symptoms arise.
7. Report the Food: If possible, report the food contamination to local authorities or the FDA (or relevant food safety authority) to prevent further cases and assist with potential recalls.

Early intervention greatly improves outcomes, as aflatoxicosis can be life-threatening if untreated. Even minor symptoms should be taken seriously.

 Mitigating aflatoxin contamination in pet food in Kenya

Mitigating aflatoxin contamination in pet food in Kenya requires a multi-layered approach, from sourcing raw materials to testing and quality control. Here are some strategies

Improving storage facilities, sourcing quality ingredients, regular testing and quality control of raw materials and finished

1. Sourcing Quality Ingredients: Pet food producers should source raw materials from reputable suppliers who adhere to aflatoxin control standards. Importing from low-risk regions or working with local farmers to implement mold-resistant practices, such as early harvesting and drying methods, can reduce the risk of contamination in the initial stages.
2. Regular Testing and Quality Control: Routine testing of raw materials and finished products for aflatoxins is crucial. On-site or third-party labs should conduct rapid aflatoxin assays and regular, random sampling to monitor levels. Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) and other regulatory agencies can establish guidelines requiring pet food companies to adhere to maximum allowable aflatoxin levels.
3. Use of Biological Controls: Introducing biological controls, such as Aflasafe, can help reduce aflatoxin production in crops. Aflasafe is a safe, naturally occurring product containing strains of Aspergillus that do not produce aflatoxins and compete with toxin-producing strains, reducing aflatoxin contamination at the farm level.
4. Educating Farmers and Producers: Training programs can raise awareness among farmers and pet food producers about aflatoxin risks and prevention techniques. Topics may include proper drying, safe storage, crop rotation, and mold-resistant practices. Organizations can work with local farmers and cooperatives to adopt these methods.
5. Government and Regulatory Support: In Kenya, KEBS and other food safety bodies can play a significant role by enforcing regulations on aflatoxin limits in pet food and implementing strict compliance requirements for pet food producers. Policies that support testing infrastructure, market surveillance, and rapid response to contamination events are also beneficial.
6. Consumer Awareness: Pet owners should be educated on recognizing aflatoxin symptoms in pets and the importance of choosing high-quality pet food. Veterinarians and animal welfare groups can help inform the public about aflatoxin risks and proper storage of pet food at home to prevent mold growth.

Through these combined efforts, the risk of aflatoxin contamination in pet food can be minimized, ensuring pet safety and supporting the growth of a reliable, safe pet food industry in Kenya.