A doctor working for the Chisso factory mixed wastewater with cat food and fed it to cats, which started to convulse and were paralyzed before dying. In general, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that too much mercury may cause: More often, mercury poisoning builds up over time, along with its effects. These serving sizes include: Certain states, territories, and tribes in the US may also have specific advisories about water sources where fish are caught that may be contaminated with mercury. Instead, three-quarters of the sample's mercury appears to be an obscure organic compound called alpha-mercuri-acetaldehyde that likely came straight from the wastewater, they argue. When detected early, mercury poisoning can be halted. When a cat feels unwell or is anxious, her first instinct is to hide. These tests may include: A healthcare professional may ask about your symptoms and when they started. Please let us know all the ways you would like to hear from us: You can change your mind at any time by clicking the unsubscribe link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting us at advice@paws-and-effect.com. Cleaning up a small mercury spill. Symptoms dont occur immediately and usually arise after long periods of contact (could be years or decades) with the compound. Does it mean you need to avoid all fish? By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Get more great content like this delivered right to you! Siouxsie: Our research indicates that while an occasional tuna treat is okay, there are a number of hazards to regularly feeding tuna to your cat. I had testing done through Metametrix Labs along with some blood testing. If the poisoning is primarily from noxious fumes or a gas, get your cat to fresh air, but dont put yourself at risk for poisoning. If your cat is indeed suffering from mercury poisoning, your vet will prescribe charcoal tablets and other medications that will help limit the absorption of mercury. getting him through it. In this case, 81% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. Some children who are exposed to mercury at a young age may develop learning disabilities, according to the Environmental Defense Fund.