# Evaluation of Cat Exposure to Bisphenol A (BPA) Using Hair Sample Analysis

## TL;DR

This study measures BPA levels in cat hair for the first time, showing cats are exposed to this harmful chemical, with indoor cats having higher levels.

## Contribution

First-time analysis of BPA in cat hair, establishing it as a reliable matrix for long-term exposure assessment in cats.

## Key findings

- BPA was detected in cat hair samples, indicating significant exposure.
- Indoor cats had higher BPA levels compared to cats with outdoor access.
- BPA levels varied with age and body condition scores in cats.

## Abstract

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an organic compound that is commonly used in various branches of industry, mainly as a component of plastics. BPA pollutes the environment and harms living organisms. It is known that companion animals living in proximity to humans are exposed to anthropogenic environmental pollutants to a large extent. Still, knowledge of cat exposure to BPA is extremely limited. The study describes, for the first time, BPA levels in cat hair samples, which are the best matrix for assessing long-term exposure to environmental pollutants. The results indicate the presence of BPA in cat hair, suggesting that cats are significantly exposed to this compound. During the study, some relationships between BPA levels in the hair and cat lifestyle, age and body condition scores have been noted. The results show that cats are exposed to BPA, and this substance may negatively affect their health, but further studies are needed to clarify all aspects of its effects on cat health.

Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic organic compound commonly used as a plasticiser in the industry. It pollutes the environment, harms human and animal organisms, and exhibits endocrine-disrupting properties. Companion animals, living in proximity to humans, are highly exposed to BPA. However, knowledge of cat exposure to this compound is extremely scarce. In the present study, BPA levels were analysed for the first time in cat hair using liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. BPA concentrations ranged from below the limit of detection to 955.4 pg/mg, with a mean (±standard deviation) of 67.98 ± 145.2 pg/mg and a median of 27.3 pg/mg. Higher levels of BPA have been found in the strictly indoor cats (mean 79.45 ± 162.2 pg/mg, median 35.3 pg/mg) than in cats with outdoor access (mean 25.93 ± 8.07 pg/mg, median 24.4 pg/mg). Some differences in BPA levels have also been noted depending on age and body condition scores. The results show that cats are exposed to BPA to a considerable extent, and the levels of this compound in hair may depend on many factors. It can be assumed that BPA may negatively affect cat health, but due to limited knowledge of BPA metabolism in cats and its harmful effects in this species, many aspects of these issues require further comprehensive studies.