Dangers of Secondhand Smoke for Cats
Secondhand smoke is extremely dangerous for cats. Cats who live in a home with smokers or are exposed to tobacco smoke are at risk of developing serious health issues.
According to the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association, cats exposed to secondhand smoke are twice as likely to develop malignant lymphoma, a type of feline cancer, compared to cats in a smoke-free environment (Don’t Puff Around Pets). Inhaling tobacco smoke can also lead to other respiratory illnesses in cats, such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. Their small size and anatomy make cats especially vulnerable to these diseases.
Another issue is that when cats groom themselves, they ingest harmful chemicals that accumulate in their fur from secondhand smoke. Kittens and cats with asthma are particularly susceptible, but all cats are at risk from secondhand smoke exposure.
Tobacco Smoke is Toxic to Cats
Cigarette smoke contains over 7,000 chemicals, with at least 70 known to be carcinogenic in humans and toxic to animals as well[1]. When cats inhale secondhand smoke, these toxic substances get absorbed into their bloodstream and spread throughout their body. Nicotine and carcinogens have been found in the fur and blood of cats exposed to cigarette smoke[2]. Even thirdhand smoke residues that linger on surfaces and fabrics can pose risks if ingested during grooming.
Some of the most harmful components of tobacco smoke for cats include:
- Nicotine – causes faster heart rate and high blood pressure
- Tar – contains carcinogens that can cause cancer
- Carbon monoxide – reduces oxygen delivery to cells
- Formaldehyde – lung irritant and carcinogen
- Ammonia – lung irritant
Repeated or prolonged exposure to these toxic chemicals through secondhand smoke can be very dangerous for cats over time.
Feline Lung Cancer
Secondhand smoke significantly increases the risk of lung cancer in cats. Studies show that cats exposed to tobacco smoke are about 2 to 3 times more likely to develop malignant lymphoma, a type of cancer that forms in the lymph nodes and has a poor prognosis for survival (VCAAHospitals).
The two most common respiratory system cancers seen in cats are lymphosarcoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Lymphosarcoma accounts for about 33% of all feline cancers. The average survival time after diagnosis is just 2-3 months without treatment. Squamous cell carcinoma also has a poor prognosis, with an average survival time of 1-6 months after diagnosis (American Lung Association).
Symptoms of lung cancer in cats include coughing, labored breathing, reduced appetite, lethargy, sneezing, nasal discharge, blood in phlegm or stool, weight loss, poor coat condition, and swelling around head/neck. Early detection and treatment can help prolong survival, so it’s important to watch for any respiratory distress in cats exposed to smoke.
Other Respiratory Effects
Secondhand smoke can lead to several other respiratory issues in cats beyond lung cancer. As cats groom themselves by licking their fur, they ingest toxins that accumulate from tobacco smoke exposure (https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/the-effects-of-second-hand-smoke-on-pets). This puts cats at an increased risk of developing upper respiratory infections that affect their nasal passages, throat, and sinuses. The carcinogens in cigarette smoke also exacerbate asthma in cats who are genetically predisposed to this condition. Asthma causes inflammation and narrowing of a cat’s airways, resulting in coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Studies show that secondhand smoke exposure worsens asthma symptoms and makes attacks more frequent (https://www.lung.org/blog/dont-puff-around-pets).
Additionally, research indicates that cats regularly exposed to secondhand smoke experience decreased lung function over time. Tobacco smoke causes damage to the lungs’ airways and alveoli, reducing a cat’s ability to efficiently oxygenate blood and remove carbon dioxide. This impaired lung function can manifest as increased breathing rate, wheezing, lethargy, and exercise intolerance.
Grooming Risks
When cats groom themselves, they lick their fur and ingest the toxins that accumulate on their coat from secondhand smoke exposure. Nicotine and carcinogens from tobacco smoke stick to a cat’s fur just like they stick to clothing and furniture. According to The Effects of Secondhand Smoke on Pets, cats meticulously groom themselves by licking their fur, so they ingest these dangerous toxins during grooming.
Cats also absorb toxins through their paws and coat. Their paws have sweat glands that can absorb the chemicals settled on surfaces and flooring. The carcinogens then enter the cat’s bloodstream and build up in their system over time. According to Secondhand Smoke: It’s Not Good For Your Cat Either, the toxins accumulate in the body and put cats at higher risk of various cancers and other diseases.
Risks to Kittens
Kittens are especially vulnerable to the dangers of secondhand smoke exposure. Their lungs and immune systems are still developing, so toxins from cigarette smoke can impair proper growth. According to the ASPCA, kittens’ “tiny, delicate respiratory systems make them more at risk for damage.”
Studies show that kittens exposed to secondhand smoke are more prone to lung inflammation and respiratory infections. Their small bronchial tubes are easily obstructed by smoke particles and irritation. Secondhand smoke also increases mucus production in kittens’ airways, further blocking respiration. Even exposure to thirdhand smoke residues on furniture or floors poses risks.
VCA Hospitals notes that cats exposed to smoke as kittens have higher rates of lung cancer later in life. The toxins disrupt early development, leading to permanent damage. Limiting smoke exposure in a kitten’s first year of life is crucial to allowing proper lung growth and function.
In addition to respiratory impacts, secondhand smoke may hinder neurological development in kittens. It could potentially affect brain cell growth and connections during critical maturation stages. Taking steps to minimize smoke around newborn and young kittens protects their short- and long-term health.
Avoiding Exposure
The best way to protect your cat from secondhand smoke is to avoid exposing them to it as much as possible. Here are some tips:
– Smoke outside away from your cat. Step outside or onto a balcony when smoking. Keep your cat indoors so they don’t come near you when you are smoking.
– Change your clothes after smoking. The chemicals from cigarette smoke can stick to clothing and fur. Take off any outerwear you were wearing while smoking before interacting with your cat.
– Use air purifiers. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help remove toxins from smoke lingering indoors. Place air purifiers in rooms you smoke in and where your cat spends time.
Making your home smoke-free is the best way to protect your cat. But if you can’t quit entirely, following these steps will help reduce your cat’s exposure to harmful secondhand smoke.
Signs of Illness
Cats exposed to secondhand smoke can develop respiratory issues and other health problems. Some common signs of illness in cats caused by secondhand smoke exposure include:
- Coughing, wheezing, and other breathing issues – Cats exposed to tobacco smoke may cough, wheeze, or have difficulty breathing. Smoke irritates the airways and can cause inflammation.
- Increased upper respiratory infections – Smoke suppresses the immune system, making cats prone to more frequent upper respiratory infections. These may involve sneezing, runny nose and eyes, fever, and sinusitis.
- Lethargy – Cats with respiratory issues from smoke inhalation tend to be less energetic and sleep more. Smoke can reduce oxygen levels in the blood, leading to fatigue.
According to the ASPCA, some research indicates that cats living with smokers have a higher risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as lymphoma and oral cancer, compared to cats in a smoke-free home (source). So it’s important to be vigilant for any signs of illness in a cat exposed to tobacco smoke.
Treating Affected Cats
If a cat is showing signs of respiratory distress from secondhand smoke exposure, the first line of treatment is oxygen therapy to improve breathing and increase oxygen levels in the blood. Bronchodilators like albuterol may be administered through a nebulizer to open up the airways. Anti-inflammatory corticosteroids can also help reduce inflammation in the lungs and airways.
Treatment for feline lung cancer caused by secondhand smoke exposure depends on the type, severity, and progression of cancer present. Options may include surgery to remove tumors, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy drugs, or palliative care. Oncologists will determine the best course of treatment based on the individual cat’s diagnosis.
The most important thing is to remove the cat from any exposure to secondhand smoke and provide a smoke-free home environment. This will give the cat the best chance at recovery and prevent any further damage.
Creating a Smoke-Free Home
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for the health of your cat as well as your own health. According to the FDA, exposure to cigarette smoke can lead to lung and nasal cancer in cats, as well as lung inflammation and respiratory infections [1]. By eliminating smoke from your home, you greatly reduce the risk of these conditions in your feline companions.
In addition to benefiting your cat, quitting smoking has numerous health advantages for people. According to the CDC, smoking cessation lowers your risk for lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and other illnesses [2]. You’ll also have more energy, improved senses of taste and smell, and whiter teeth and skin.
There are many resources available to help you quit smoking. Talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy, prescription medications, counseling, support groups, and quitlines. The CDC has guides on developing a quit plan, coping with cravings, avoiding triggers, and more [3]. With determination and the right support, you can create a smoke-free home for both you and your cat’s wellbeing.