A new study has found has levels of flame retardant chemicals to be three times higher in cats with hyperthyroid disease than in normal, healthy cats. These flame retardant chemicals are called PBDE’s (polybrominated diphenyl ethers) and are used in things like upholstery, carpet, mattresses, and even televisions. It’s thought cats are exposed to PBDE’s when they groom because they’re ingesting contaminated household dust from our furniture and carpet and from their bedding.
The study also found that canned fish and seafood flavored cat food had significantly higher levels of PBDE’s in them. And a diet of canned food may have levels of PBDE’s twelve times higher than a diet of dry food. It’s estimated that pet cats might be receiving as much as 100 times greater dietary PBDE exposure than American adults.
Sweden started limiting the uses of PBDE’s when it was found in human breast milk. The state of Washington passed legislation banning PBDE’s this year.
Read about the symptoms of and treatments for feline hyperthyroidism.