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@github-actions github-actions bot commented Nov 3, 2025

Problem

The nutrition agent was receiving 404 errors for missing pet types (rabbit, ferret, turtle, reptile) and generating hallucinated product recommendations instead of handling the errors gracefully.

Investigation Results:

  • 5,011 failed requests (404 errors) to /nutrition/:pet_type
  • 45% failure rate (5,011 ÷ 11,067 total requests)
  • Missing pet types: rabbit, ferret, turtle, reptile

Solution

This PR implements a two-part fix:

1. Enhanced Error Handling in Nutrition Agent

  • Proper 404 detection: Added explicit status code checking in get_nutrition_data()
  • Graceful fallback responses: When pet types are not found, agent now directs users to contact the clinic instead of hallucinating
  • Clear error messaging: Provides helpful contact information (555) 123-4567 for unsupported pet types
  • Prevents hallucination: Agent no longer fabricates product names or nutritional advice for missing data

2. Database Enhancement

  • Added missing pet types: rabbit, ferret, turtle, reptile with appropriate nutrition facts
  • Comprehensive product catalog: Each new pet type includes 3 branded product recommendations
  • Reduces 404 errors: Addresses root cause by providing data for commonly requested pet types

Key Changes

pet_clinic_ai_agents/nutrition_agent/nutrition_agent.py:

  • Enhanced get_nutrition_data() with proper 404 handling
  • Added error state tracking with error and not_found flags
  • Updated all tool functions to provide helpful fallback responses
  • Modified system prompt to prevent fabrication of product information

pet-nutrition-service/db-seed.js:

  • Added 4 new pet types: rabbit, ferret, turtle, reptile
  • Each includes species-appropriate nutrition facts and branded products
  • Maintains consistency with existing product naming conventions

Expected Impact

  • Eliminates hallucination: Agent will no longer generate fake product recommendations
  • Reduces 404 errors: From 45% failure rate to near 0% for common pet types
  • Improves user experience: Clear guidance to contact clinic for specialized needs
  • Maintains accuracy: Only provides verified product information

Testing

The fix handles both scenarios:

  1. Supported pet types: Normal operation with product recommendations
  2. Unsupported pet types: Graceful fallback with clinic contact information

Resolves the hallucination issue identified in the investigation while maintaining existing functionality for supported pet types.

- Add proper 404 status code handling in get_nutrition_data()
- Return clear error messages when pet types are not found
- Prevent hallucinated product recommendations for missing data
- Add fallback responses that direct users to contact the clinic
- Maintain existing functionality for supported pet types
- Add rabbit, ferret, turtle, and reptile nutrition data
- Prevents 404 errors for commonly requested pet types
- Includes appropriate nutrition facts and product recommendations
- Addresses root cause of hallucination issue
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