Smoking around pets: FAQ

It has recently been suggested that smoking poses a potential danger to pets. Research carried out by a team at the University of Glasgow found that dogs, cats and small animals (such as guinea pigs and birds) could be just as much at risk from second hand smoke as people.

Find out the risks of smoking around pets, and what you can do to reduce the risk.

What are the dangers of passive smoking to dogs?

There is evidence to suggest that tobacco smoke increases the risk of cancers in dogs, including lung and nasal cancer. But not all cases of these types of cancer in dogs will be down to passive smoking. 

Keep your eye out for breathing difficulties or severe nasal discharge in your dog, as this could be a sign of respiratory cancer.

What are the dangers of passive smoking to cats?

Cats are more at risk than other pets due to self-grooming which means they can ingest the toxic particles created by smoking. This, and regularly inhaling second-hand smoke, could possibly increase the risk of cancer, particularly lymphoma cancer.

Why are pets at high risk of passive smoking?

Many pets love to snuggle up with their owners or stay close, so they breathe in more smoke as a result. They usually spend more time in the house than their owners, lounging on carpets and furniture covered in carcinogenic particles. Those particles can also settle on their fur, so pets – particularly cats – can then ingest them as they groom themselves. 

Second-hand smoke might also exacerbate conditions like bronchitis and asthma.

Aside from the risks, the smell of tobacco smoke can also be unpleasant for pets as they have far more powerful senses of smell than humans. 

What can I do to protect my pet if I smoke?

Not smoking around your pet is the only way to protect them completely. 

Smoking outdoors will help reduce the amount of smoke that they inhale. Smoking in a separate room may not solve the problem as the particles will still remain on your clothes and any furniture nearby. Good ventilation to avoid smoky air stagnating is crucial and regular vacuuming of soft furnishings will also help lessen the amount of potentially dangerous particles in the home.

Is it safe to use vapes or electronic cigarettes around pets instead?

Vapes and e-cigarettes often contain nicotine (the same substance found in cigarettes). Nicotine is toxic for pets, so it's important to avoid using vapes and e-cigarettes around them. 

Never leave e-cigarettes unattended, especially if your dog is prone to chewing. Ingestion of the liquid can quickly cause poisoning, which can be fatal. If you think your pet has swallowed the liquid, contact your vet immediately.

As with cigarettes, you should use vapes and e-cigarettes outdoors and away from your pet.