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

Global Pet Expo: Teddy Maximus’ Accessories Brings Out The Royalty I

We found Brit export''s Teddy Maximus luxury accessories at Global Pet Expo and they''d make Harry and Meghan more than a bit jealous!
Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher is a feisty, friendly dog sometimes known as the ""King of the Toy Dogs."" Miniature Pinschers aren''t ideal for large families.
Does My Dog Need Winter Boots?

Yes, those cute little booties are more than a fashion statement – if you’ve been questioning their efficacy, read on to find out if your pet could use a pair of nice winter boots to keep their paws snug and warm.
Product Review: Solvit Dog Ramp

Senior dogs can find it hard to get in and out of cars. A perfect solution is Solvit''s Deluxe Telescoping Pet Ramp, which makes road trips easy again.
What Should You Do If Your Dog Gets A Sunburn

What happens when Fido gets too much sun? The same thing that happens to his humans. It hurts! So, it’s important to know what to do if your dog gets t…
Betta Splenden

Betta Splenden fish are one of the hardiest species of freshwater aquarium fish and are an incredibly popular mainstay among hobbyists.
Top 5 Things NOT To Say When a Friend’s Pet Dies (and What You Shoul

When a friend''s pet dies, you want to say the right thing, but the wrong words come out. We''ve got a few suggestions of what to say and what to avoid.
Dog Insurance Dos and Don’ts

Are you confused about dog insurance? We''ve put together a handy list of dos and don''ts you need to know about before you sign on the dotted line.
Blue Crowned Hanging Parrot

The cute looks, unique traits and their rarity on the bird market all make the Blue Crowned Hanging Parrot a very sought-after pet.
Fashion Icon Karl Lagerfeld Leaves Beloved Cat A Hefty Inheritance

While the fashion world mourns the passing of icon designer Karl Lagerfeld, friends wondered what would come of his beloved cat Choupette. No need to worry,…
Raise A Pint To These Top Irish Dog Names

Are you feeling lucky? Well, are you, Pug? For St. Patty''s Day, here are the top Irish dog names that will have you feeling luckier than a leprechaun!
Neon Tetra

The Neon tetra is an incredibly beautiful species of tropical freshwater aquarium fish. Neon tetras usually grow up to around 1.2 inches in length.
Redbone Retriever

The friendly Redbone Retriever brings together the sweet-natured Golden Retriever, the easygoing Labrador Retriever and the Redbone Coonhound.
4 Purrfect Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Cat

When you are ready to add a feline to your family, consider adoption. Need a good reason to adopt a shelter cat? We''ll give you four!
Get Book Smart With Brain Games for Cats

Learn fun ways interact with your cat and teach him some cool tricks. ""Brain Games for Cats"" offers plenty of games that will shape your cat''s behavior.