Veterinary toxicologists are documenting a pattern of unexplained kidney and liver disease in companion animals that resolves or stabilizes following removal from mold-contaminated environments, pointing to mycotoxin exposure as a significantly underrecognized cause of organ damage in pets.
Ochratoxin A, a mycotoxin produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium species common in water-damaged buildings, is a well-established nephrotoxin — a substance that damages kidney tissue. Aflatoxins are potent hepatotoxins that can cause acute liver failure at high doses and chronic liver disease at lower chronic exposures.
Veterinary toxicologists at the American Board of Veterinary Toxicology have reviewed case files from 60 companion animals diagnosed with idiopathic kidney or liver disease — meaning no conventional cause could be identified. In 38 of those cases, the owner reported water damage or mold in the home. Of the 28 animals that were relocated and underwent remediation, 21 showed stabilization or improvement in organ function at six-month follow-up.
The findings suggest that veterinarians should include environmental history in their workups for unexplained organ disease, particularly in animals that are otherwise young and healthy.
Pet owners are advised to have their homes tested for mold if a pet is diagnosed with unexplained kidney or liver disease, and to consult with a veterinary toxicologist if environmental exposure is suspected.
