As Americans become more aware of the risks posed by microplastics, one question remains: what about the hidden impact on our pets?
The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that 59.8 million U.S. households own a dog and 42.2 million own a cat, many of which are likely exposed to plastics through toys or food packaging that may contain harmful chemicals.
A 2024 Harris QuestDIY survey of 1,004 Americans found that 62 percent of those familiar with microplastics recognized human health risks as a major concern. Among those aware, 81 percent took action—for example, 53 percent switched to glass or metal products, and 32 percent discarded plastic cutting boards to reduce exposure.
Perhaps the same caution should be applied when thinking about our furry friends. Newsweek spoke to two experts about how pets are being exposed to chemicals through the items they frequently chew and play with.
Chemicals Found in Pet Toys
Aidan Charron, the associate director at Global EarthDay.org, a nonprofit organization that mobilizes people worldwide to protect the planet, told Newsweek that the following chemicals are found in toys:
Phthalates: chemicals commonly found in plastics and many everyday products.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): considered one of the more-harmful types of plastic because it contains chlorine, which makes it more toxic than most other plastics. It has been linked to gene damage (mutagenic effects) and an increased risk of cancer for humans.
Bisphenol A (BPA): chemical made in large amounts to create strong, clear plastics. It is commonly used in things like water bottles.
Charron said: “We do know that (the above) plastic chemicals can leach into our pets’ gums, stomachs and skin from their toys and anything they ingest and inhale that is plastic.
“This exposure is associated with a whole host of health issues for our pets. From cancers to embryo development to potential infertility, liver failure, lower sperm count miscarriage and more. All the same things that human beings are faced with, too.”
Evidence of Harm
Studies in rodents show that phthalates aren’t deadly in small amounts, but they can still harm the body—especially the liver, kidneys, thyroid, and testicles. There is strong evidence that these chemicals can affect reproduction and development in both animals and people.
For example, when pregnant animals were exposed to a type of phthalate called DBP at high levels, it was toxic to the developing babies.
Lack of Regulations for Pet Toys
Currently, there are no specific federal or state laws regulating the manufacture or sale of pet toys. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does not actively regulate pet products, unless a person is harmed.
The 2008 Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act focuses only on children’s products, not pet items. However, because pet toys are often around children, some retailers may require manufacturers to meet the same safety standards as children’s toys—such as limits on lead and other chemicals.
Safe Materials and Labels for Pet Toys
Charron added: “Currently, plastic is the cheapest material for producers to use, and they do not have to pay for the repercussions on our pet’s health because it would be hugely expensive for pet owners to prove.”
Exposure to microplastics is everywhere for both humans and pets, but owners can take action and make mindful choices when it comes to their purchases.
Newsweek spoke to environmental attorney Vineet Dubey, an environmental litigator who sues companies that are endangering public health by selling products containing toxic chemicals. Dubey, based in California, shared the following tips for pet owners:
Just as BPA, phthalates and lead are harmful to humans, when they are included in pet toys they present double-trouble, because both pets and the humans playing with them are potentially exposed.
Avoid toys that have no information about the materials they contain. Safer toys usually advertise their standards.
Opt for toys made in the USA, Canada, or Japan, where products are more likely to meet regulations and safety standards than unregulated imports.
Look for labels such as FDA-grade silicone (food grade), OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (textiles tested for harmful substances), and BPA-free or Phthalate-free.
If the toy is soft, it may contain phthalates, which are known hormone disruptors in humans. Check the recycling code—avoid toys marked with code 3, which indicates PVC and possible phthalates.
Consider how your pet will use the toy. Plastics that are broken apart, chewed, or swallowed release more chemicals. That’s why you should avoid plastic food bowls and choose stainless steel or ceramic instead.
Hard toys can commonly contain BPA, so look for a “BPA-free” label. Painted or dyed toys—especially cheap imports—can also contain lead.
When shopping, look for toys made with natural materials, such as bone, natural rubber, undyed cotton, hemp, or food-grade silicone for chew toys.
References
Phthalates and their impacts on human health. (n.d.). PMC Home. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8157593/
Risks associated with the presence of polyvinyl chloride in the environment and methods for its disposal and utilization. (n.d.). PMC Home. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10779931/
Bisphenol a (BPA). (n.d.). National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/sya-bpa