Keywords

Microplastics; Felis catus; Reproductive Tissue; Feral and Domestic Felines; Companion Animals; Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Abstract

Although plastics have many useful properties in modern society, once these materials are introduced into the environment, they can cause extensive damage. Following degradation into microplastics (MP), plastic particles less than 5 mm in size, these contaminants can make their way into a variety of different environments and organisms. There are many studies that have investigated the prevalence of MP in marine environments, but fewer studies have looked into terrestrial systems, and even less that have focused on contamination in companion animals. This study sought to investigate the invasion of MP into the reproductive tissues of felines, Felis catus, and compare concentrations in feral versus domestic felines as well as female versus male tissues. While previous studies have found MP in the overall internal systems of felines, the concentration in the reproductive tissue specifically has yet to be explored. Reproductive tissue samples were collected, chemically processed, and then analyzed via microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to detect and identify MP contamination. This study revealed that domestic felines had a significantly greater density of MP/gram of reproductive tissue than feral felines. Additionally, female felines had a significantly greater density of MP/gram of reproductive tissue than male felines. Comparing these differences could lead to MP source theories based on the feline’s lifestyle and food sources, potentially giving rise to ideas on how to limit contamination. It is important to consider the contamination of the reproductive system given the likelihood that this may raise questions about the effect of MP on feline fertility and overall reproductive health.

Thesis Completion Year

2026

Thesis Completion Semester

Spring

Thesis Chair

Walters, Linda

College

College of Sciences

Department

Biology

Thesis Discipline

Biology

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus Access

None

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

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Quade_Emma_HUT.docx (5608 kB)
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