Q: We recently had our carpets professionally cleaned, and three days later our cat had a seizure. A veterinary exam showed that it had come into contact with something toxic. What is a safe way to clean ourcarpets?A: Your friendly feline could have fallen victim to perchloroethylene, also known as tetra-chloroethylene, or perc. The chemical is often used to clean carpets and dry clean clothing. Inhaling it can cause dizziness, fatigue, and loss of coordination. Studies have found that long-term exposure can lead to mild loss of memory or visual perception and delayed reaction time, among other ailments. Perc has also been linked to kidney damage and neurotoxicity, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The organization has designated perc a "potential occupational carcinogen," while the National Institutes of Health has found a likely connection between the chemical and Parkinson's disease.
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