PFAS Bans in Australia: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

You might’ve heard the buzz: Australia banned a group of harmful chemicals called PFAS from 1 July 2025. It’s big news for human health - but did you know it could make a real difference for your pets, too? Let’s break it down so you know what PFAS are, why they’re bad news, and how to keep your furry family members safe.

So, What Are PFAS?

PFAS (short for per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used to make things water, grease, and stain resistant. They’ve been used for decades in everything from non-stick pans and waterproof mascara to food packaging, carpets, clothing, and even pet products. The problem? They don’t break down easily. They stick around in the environment—and in our bodies—for a very long time. That’s why they’re nicknamed “forever chemicals.”

The New Ban in Australia

From 1 July 2025, Australia banned the manufacture, import, and use of three key PFAS chemicals (PFOA, PFOS, and PFHxS). This move puts Australia among the world leaders in cracking down on PFAS use in everyday products, especially cosmetics and household goods.

How Do Pets Get Exposed?

Our pets live close to the ground, sniffing, licking, and rolling on surfaces we barely think about. That puts them at higher risk of exposure to PFAS in things like:

• Carpets and couches treated with stain guard

• Waterproof pet beds or toys

• Dust on floors (yes, PFAS cling to dust!)

• Contaminated tap water

• Grooming products or flea collars

• Food packaging

Pets also groom themselves by licking their fur so any PFAS that end up on them often get ingested.

What Can PFAS Do to Pets?

Emerging research shows PFAS can have some serious effects on pet health. Studies have found:

• Liver damage: Dogs exposed to PFAS had higher liver enzymes, just like humans.

• Thyroid disruption: Cats showed changes in thyroid hormone levels, which can affect weight, energy, and mood.

• Immune system suppression: Pets may become more prone to illness or react poorly to vaccines.

• Increased cholesterol: Even in dogs, long-term PFAS exposure has been linked to changes in cholesterol levels.

And because our pets can’t tell us exactly how they’re feeling, these health issues might go unnoticed until they become serious.

What Vets Are Saying

Veterinary toxicologists and holistic vets are starting to flag PFAS as a growing concern -especially for indoor pets. Here’s what many now recommend:

1. Go PFAS-free where possible

   Swap out pet beds, toys, or collars that are water or stain resistant unless they’re clearly labelled PFAS-free.

2. Choose clean grooming and pest control products

   Avoid shampoos or flea collars that contain fluorinated chemicals. Opt for natural or holistic vet-recommended alternatives.

3. Vacuum and clean regularly

   PFAS stick to dust, so keep floors and surfaces clean - especially areas where your pets like to nap.

4. Watch for subtle signs

   If your pet seems unusually tired, thirsty, or has unexplained weight or coat changes, it might be worth a chat with your vet.

5. Check your water

   If you're in an area known for PFAS contamination, consider a water filter and talk to your vet about potential testing.

This ban is a huge step toward reducing PFAS exposure in homes, and it’s likely to make the environment safer for both humans and animals. But it’s still worth taking small steps at home now to reduce your pet’s contact with these chemicals - especially while the old products are still on the shelves.

Our pets trust us to protect them - and even though they can’t read labels or follow the news, we can. The PFAS ban is a great reminder to take a closer look at what’s in our homes and on our pets. Even small changes can lead to a cleaner, safer space for the whole family - two-legged and four-legged alike.