Our pets share our homes, cars, and environment. Everything that we do affects them directly, and tobacco smoke is no exception. Learn how secondhand smoke and pets are a bad combination and find another good reason to kick the habit once and for all.

Secondhand Smoke and Pets

Cancer is on the rise amongst pets and people, and tobacco smoke is full of known carcinogens. Anything we can do to decrease the risk of our beloved furry friends developing cancer is worth it. Take the following into account:

  • Dogs living in smoking households have been shown to have high levels of cotinine (the product of the breakdown of nicotine) in their blood
  • Pets, especially those with longer snouts, who are exposed to tobacco smoke have an increased risk of nasal and sinus cancers
  • Cats living in smoking households are twice as likely to develop malignant lymphoma (and three times more likely if they are exposed for more than five years)
  • Birds are particularly sensitive and at increased risk for pneumonia, lung cancer, and fertility issues when housed in smoking environments
  • Exotic pets of any kind have extremely sensitive respiratory systems

Taking your habit outdoors helps some, but studies have also shown that tobacco levels in the homes of smokers who did not smoke inside the house were still five to seven times higher than those in the homes of nonsmokers. The evidence is overwhelming, secondhand smoke isn’t good for anyone.

Other Risks

Besides inhaling secondhand smoke, pets of smokers have other risks as well. While smoke inhalation is an obvious risk, don’t forget that:

  • Pets may lick or groom smoke residue from the fur, ingesting toxins and increasing the risk of oral and gastrointestinal cancers
  • Cigarette butts contain the most nicotine and can be ingested by pets
  • Cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, nicotine gum, and nicotine patches all can be toxic if ingested

The best way to protect your pets it to quit smoking and prevent others from smoking around them. Smoking outside of the home does help some, although complete avoidance is best. If you do smoke, make a point to brush and/or groom your pet frequently to decrease accumulation of toxins on the coat. Provide good ventilation in your home and be sure to keep all ashtrays and nicotine containing items well out of the reach of your pets. Regular wellness examinations are important for all pets, but particularly those of smokers.

If you haven’t already quit smoking, please consider doing so for your pet. After all, they are simply innocent bystanders. Secondhand smoke is a serious danger for pets and people alike.