Study: Feline Hyperthyroidism May Linked To Carpet and Furniture Chemi

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

New research about the chemicalsthat are found in carpeting and certain upholsteries suggests that your cat’s thyroid may be in danger.

Dr. Miaomiao Wang is with the California Environmental Protection Agency and was the lead researcher of the study. Dr. Wang said that many carpets and furniture upholsteries have chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in them as they were common in furniture until about the year 2000.

Related:What Is Feline Hyperthyroidism?

In prior studies, it was found that high exposure to PFAS could adversely affect the thyroid function of humans, and now it is believed that it may also be detrimental for the thyroids of cats who are exposed to the PFAS as well.

Dr. Wang said that they’ve been investigating the effects of PFAS for several years and that cats are great to look at for examining how toxins and pollutants can affect humans as well based on how they affect them.

PFAS exposure can occur from the leaching out of objects in the home, as well as ingestion in diets and food-contact, as well as drinking water, dust and hair. Wang says that cats and humans share similarities in the way they react to exposure to residential environmental factors, including dust. Wang also said this is particularly true of toddlers.

That said, cats also have the very common endocrinological disorder of hyperthyroidism–where the thyroid overacts in hormonal productivity due to the enlarged thyroid. Dr. Wang’s team wanted to see if there was any connection with the PFAS.

They looked at the blood levels of PFAS in two different groups of cats who lived in the San Francisco, CA area. One group included 21 cats who were sampled between 2008 and 2010 and the other group of 22 was sampled between 2012 and 2013. Most all the cats were at least ten-years-old.

They found that the higher the levels of PFAS in the feline’s blood, the higher the odds of an overactive thyroid in the cat were. As well, the blood levels of a specific subcategory of PFAS was significantly higher in cats who were hyperthyroid.

Related:FDA Alert: Pet Foods and Treats May Contain Hormones That Trigger Hyperthyroidism

The team found that the sample period difference showed a PFAS decline, and they believe that was due to the common decline in PFAS blood levels in humans as the chemical’s usage continues to be phased out.

Dr. Wang recognizes the small size of the study and believes a larger-scale study may continue to offer information about how to keep our cats (and selves) safe from the effects of PFAS. Additionally, Wang suggests regular monitoring of thyroid activity for cats (and humans), particularly in cats who are ten years or older.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Top 10 Best Cats for Cuddling

Yes, it''s true - cats are cuddly! There are some cat breeds that prefer to snuggle. Here''s our list of top 10 best cats for cuddling.
Scottish Fold

The Scottish Fold is a hardy cat, doing justice to the breed''s working class origins. They have very small, soft voices and in general ""speak"" only rarely.
5 Things To Bring To Your Puppy’s First Visit To The Vet

Your puppy''s first visit to the vet. Before you head into the office, here is a list of five things that will have you looking like a prepared pet parent.
Standard Schnauzer

We''re sure that you''ll find plenty to enjoy about the active, sporty Standard Schnauzer that is also known to be obedient, loyal, athletic, and watchful.
Cats May Nose Ahead Of Dogs as the Better Sniffers

Dogs have long been using their noses in a working capacity. But experts now say that cats may be even better than dogs as search and rescue animals.
North American Wood Turtle

The North American Wood Turtle is a popular turtle breed, thanks to its friendliness, its endearing personality, and that it is tame and easy to handle.
Poogle

The Poogle is a hybrid breed that is increasing in popularity. These little dogs are known for their loving temperaments and affectionate personalities.
Betta Splenden

Betta Splenden fish are one of the hardiest species of freshwater aquarium fish and are an incredibly popular mainstay among hobbyists.
Top 10 Reasons To Put Your Dog In Doggie Daycare

It’s the “in” thing to do right now. People are putting their dogs in doggie daycare and loving it. It may seem unnecessary to some, but us dog people know t…
Can Dogs Be Racist?

Dogs love everyone... or do they? Is it possible for dogs to be racist? Let''s look at a few reasons why you might think your dog a bias toward certain people.
Spotted Turtle

The Spotted Turtle is considered one of the smallest turtles in the United States. They can sometimes have up to 125 spots over their face and shell.
German Wirehaired Pointer

Loving, easily trainable, independent, amiable, and responsive - all of these things describe the German Wirehaired Pointer. Read on to find out more.
Adoptable Dog of the Week- Momma

Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Momma, a 5 years old Chihuahua and Corgi mix from Warwick, Rhode Island. She is spayed, vaccinated, and housetrained.
DentaDish Dog Bowl Stops Bloat and Brushes Teeth

Some dogs won''t let you near their teeth with a brush - what''s a pet parent to do? The new DentaDish may help keep your dog''s clean and healthy.
The Best Parrot Paraphernalia You’ll Squawk Over

We''re wild about birds. Their beauty, intelligence?and knack for pooping on everything you love. Here are some products you''ll go Cuckoo for!