Freshpet & Seizure Concerns: What Dog Owners Should Know

If you’ve spent any time lately scrolling Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram, you’ve probably come across posts and videos sounding the alarm about Freshpet dog food. Some pet owners have shared troubling stories—ranging from vomiting and diarrhea to more severe issues like seizures—after feeding their dogs this popular refrigerated brand. With so many emotional first-hand accounts circulating, it can be hard to separate fact from speculation. If you currently feed Freshpet or are considering it, here’s a clear-eyed look at what’s known, what’s still uncertain, and how you can best protect your dog’s health.

What Pet Owners Are Reporting

Anecdotal reports have surfaced across Reddit threads, Facebook groups, and viral TikTok videos describing dogs who became seriously ill after eating Freshpet recipes. Symptoms mentioned most frequently include seizures, sudden disorientation, lethargy, vomiting, and digestive distress. One particularly detailed story came from a Dachshund’s owner who recounted a frightening episode in which their dog suffered a seizure, followed by confusion and clear discomfort. According to the owner, the symptoms gradually subsided once the dog was switched to a different diet. Other posts echo similar patterns, with some pet parents convinced there is a connection between Freshpet meals and sudden neurological problems. However, these accounts remain anecdotal and haven’t been confirmed by large-scale research.

Recalls and Safety History

It’s important to note that Freshpet has issued multiple voluntary recalls over the years, most often related to potential Salmonella contamination. For example, one lot of Freshpet Select Small Dog Beef and Egg Recipe was pulled from store shelves after testing revealed bacterial risks. While Salmonella contamination can definitely cause vomiting, diarrhea, and severe illness—especially in immunocompromised pets or humans handling the food—there is no recall or official investigation directly linking Freshpet products to seizures or other neurological conditions. In January 2024, the FDA’s pet food complaint dashboard showed one report involving Freshpet among nearly 1,000 logged incidents. Many of those cases referenced digestive upset, bloody stools, or seizures, but the data doesn’t prove causation. You can read more about that FDA report here.

What’s Clear—And What Still Isn’t

There are a few things that are reasonably well established. Freshpet has experienced multiple contamination recalls, and there is no question that Salmonella and certain pathogens can cause serious health issues in dogs. Likewise, a portion of owners have noticed their dogs improved after switching to a different diet—though improvement alone doesn’t confirm the food was the cause. What remains unproven is whether Freshpet’s recipes have any unique link to seizures or neurological symptoms beyond isolated anecdotes. No scientific studies or veterinary organizations have published evidence definitively tying Freshpet ingredients to these issues, and the FDA has not issued formal warnings on this topic. Veterinary neurologists caution that while diet can certainly impact brain health—especially in dogs with epilepsy—only specific therapeutic diets have demonstrated seizure reduction. For instance, this randomized controlled trial evaluated a medium-chain triglyceride diet and found measurable benefits in seizure management, but over-the-counter fresh food brands like Freshpet are not among these proven treatments.

What You Should Do If You’re Worried

If you’ve noticed anything out of the ordinary—whether it’s vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures, or just a concerning change in behavior—it’s a good idea to document exactly what your dog has eaten and when symptoms started. Bring this information to your veterinarian as soon as possible. Your vet can perform diagnostic tests to rule out infections, toxins, metabolic issues, or other causes that may have nothing to do with food. If you prefer to err on the side of caution, consider temporarily switching to another reputable brand or discussing a home-cooked diet with professional guidance. If you do suspect a link to Freshpet, it’s important to report your experience. Contact Freshpet’s customer service team directly, and file a report with the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine through their Consumer Complaint Coordinator or online portal. Sharing details helps regulators monitor patterns and take action if needed. Finally, keep an eye on Freshpet’s website and FDA recalls so you’re notified of any future advisories that could affect your lot numbers.

Final Takeaway

While there’s no conclusive evidence proving Freshpet causes seizures, the combination of real consumer experiences, prior contamination recalls, and the seriousness of the symptoms involved means it’s wise to stay alert. Social media can be a powerful way to share urgent warnings, but it can also amplify fear without context. Take time to consult with your veterinarian, consider alternative diets if you feel uncomfortable, and always report suspected food-related illnesses to the appropriate channels. By staying informed and vigilant, you’re giving your dog the best chance at a safe, healthy life—and helping improve accountability in the pet food industry overall.

Looking for Local Fresh Food Alternatives?

If you’d prefer to explore smaller, local options for fresh dog food, here are a few respected providers in the area:

• Fetching Foods: A Las Vegas-based company offering customized raw and gently cooked meals tailored to your dog’s health needs.
• 702 Raw: Known for high-quality, locally sourced raw blends, plus one-on-one nutritional consultations.
• Fido’s Kitchen: A local favorite providing fresh-cooked recipes, delivered weekly, with simple ingredient transparency.