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

Basque Shepherd Dog

If you are looking for a family-friendly breed that is unlike any other dog you''ve ever seen, consider the Basque Shepherd Dog.
Central American Wood Turtle

The Central American Wood Turtle (also known as the Ornate Wood Turtle) is a popular pet. These turtles are intelligent and personable.
Proper Dog Etiquette When Renting a Cottage

If you''re making plans to rent a cottage, or you''re a guest at a friend''s chalet, you need to know the rules before bringing your dog along with you.
Mississippi Map Turtle

Although the Mississippi Map Turtle is beautiful to look at, it can be difficult to keep as a pet. It is often referred to as the ""sawback turtle.""
We’re Onboard With Japan’s First Cat Cafe On a Train!

Cat cafes are incredibly popular in Japan and the trend has spread to the rest of the world. But now they''ve gone one step further, a cat cafe on a train!
6 Off-Leash Tips For The Dog Park

Roll down the window - we''re going to the dog park!To keep it safe and fun, let''s go over a few things to keep in mind the next time you''re at the dog park.
It’s All Greek Yogurt To Me Dog Treat Recipe

One of my favorite snacks is Greek yogurt. Smooth, creamy and rich, Greek yogurt is a taste of the Mediterranean you can enjoy in the middle of the day.
Understanding the Basics of Pannus in Dogs

A condition that affects the cornea in your dog''s eye, Pannius in dogs is a hereditary condition that progresses with age. Learn more about what pannus is.
Top 10 Irish Dog Breeds

Happy St. Patty''s Day! In honor of everybody''s fave day to wear green and don their ""Kiss Me I''m Irish"" button, we''re sharing our Top 10 Irish dog breeds.
Ask The Hairy Dogfathers: Front Seat Doggie Drivers

Don’t you hate back seat drivers? How about front seat drivers… ones that have four paws and sit on their owner’s lap while behind the whe…
Winter Coconut and Cranberry Dog Treat Recipe

Deck the halls with festive dog treats! Coconut and cranberries combine to make an irresistible homemade cookie for dogs who have been nice this year.
New Jersey May Be The First State To Prohibit Cat Declawing

Pet cats are ''declawed'' so that they don''t destroy furniture or injure humans. But a new measure in New Jersey may soon make that common practice illegal.
Irish Draught Horse

In addition to being a strong, versatile, and attractive breed, the Irish Draught Horse is also known for its endearing personality.
Simple Homemade Beef Stew Recipe For Dogs

Your dog needs a break from dry kibble now and then - so boring! And that''s when this super simple homemade beef stew recipe for dogs comes in handy.
Cocker-Pei

The Cocker-Pei is a cross between a purebred Shar-Pei and Cocker Spaniel. They are known for being highly social dogs with friendly personalities.