Polluted Pets
Beware, dog and cat owners: a new study indicates that our beloved furry friends may contain high levels of toxic chemicals. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), based in Washington, D.C., found levels of flame retardants (used in fabrics and furniture) in kitties that were 23 times higher than in humans; it also found amounts of the potent neurotoxin mercury (likely from fish in pet foods), a carcinogen, in our purring pals at levels five times higher than in people.
Our pooches didn’t fare much better: EWG discovered perfluorinated compounds, which are used in stain and grease-proof coatings, at levels 2.4 times higher than in humans.
Perfluorinated chemicals have been linked to liver damage and other problems. The research was based on blood and urine samples from 35 dogs and 37 cats at Hanover Animal Hospital in Mechanicsville, Va., collected in December and January. “This study shows that our pets are susceptible to the absorption of potentially harmful chemicals from our environment just as we are,” said veterinarian John Billeter, who conducted the tests. “Perhaps even more troubling is that these chemicals have been found in higher levels in pets than in humans, implying potential harmful consequences for their health and well-being and the need for further study.” [via link]
