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

Hilarious Sleeping Dogs Featured in ‘Resting Bitch Face’ Coffee Ta

Kickstart a hilarious coffee table book of sleeping dogs and their hilariously awkward faces -- you''ll laugh yourself to sleep!
Best Strollers for Dogs

There are many strollers for dogs on the market, made specifically to suit canine anatomy and needs- here are our top 10 choices.
Kitten Cuddlers Needed – Dream Job for Feline Lovers

In addition to being a noble act, this could also be a chance for people in need to unwind and relax as well. For those who have been feeling stressed and depressed lately, cuddling with kittens could be a very potent remedy.
PBS’ ‘Shelter Me’ Puts The Spotlight On At-Risk Pets

We all know the statistics are grim: millions of dogs and cats are euthanized in shelters every year. Filmmaker Steve Latham is hoping to change that with hi…
Papi-Poo

The Papi-Poo is a cross between a purebred Papillon and Poodle.This little dogs is devoted, loving, smart, and even a little mischievous.
Pooch Pom-Pom Sweaters Are Must Haves This Fall

Fall is a time to look fabulous - and this goes for your dog, too! That''s why we love this Bauhound Kickstarter campaign.
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.""
American Walking Pony

The American Walking Pony is a true pleasure to work with. This horse breed is calm and docile, and is comfortable to ride.
Petco ‘Bootique’ Slashing 30% Off Halloween Costumes, Toys, and Mo

Dog Halloween costumes, Halloween themed toys, cat costumes, and other goodies are all up for sale via Petco this month in their cleverly named ''Bootique''.
Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipes

I love quinoa - it''s grain and gluten free and it''s high in protein. It really was a no-brainer to use it in my Quinoa Grain-Free Dog Treat Recipe.
What Factors Go Into Determining Monthly Premium for Dog Insurance?
PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box

What if there was a product that took over the duty of picking up after your cat? Let the PetSafe ScoopFree Self-Cleaning Cat Litter Box do all the work for you.
African Cichlids

African cichlids are considered to be one of the most diverse, intelligent, active and colorful families of freshwater fish in the modern aquarium hobby.
Birman

Known as the ""Sacred Cat of Burma,"" the Birman is an ancient breed whose true origins are unknown. The Birman is a friendly, outgoing, self-assured cat.
On The Road Again: Basic Car Etiquette For Well Behaved Dog Trippers

What’s the longest period of time you’ve ever been in a car with a dog (or four dogs, for that matter)? For Kevin Roberts, he’s driven thro…