How Does Secondhand Smoke Affect Your Pets?

Pets bring joy and comfort to our lives, and from the day they enter our homes, they’re part of the family. That means that whatever habits we have actively affects them. If you’re a smoker, you probably don’t realize that this habit affects your pets just as much as it affects the rest of your family. As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to make sure that we take care of their health and wellness. 

Why does smoking affect my pets?

If you smoke inside, even if doors and windows are open, you’ll find that the smoke will still spread around your home. Around 80% of all tobacco smoke is odorless and invisible, making it hard to tell exactly how far it has spread. With smoke containing more than 5,000 different chemicals, a lot of which have been proven to be toxic to pets and people, you risk these chemicals building up on your clothes, surfaces and even your pet’s fur.

How does a smoke-free environment benefit my pets?

Studies show that pets living in smoke-free environments live longer, have lower risk of disease and have an improved quality of life. Basically, when you make your living space healthier, your pets thrive alongside you.

How can secondhand smoke affect my pet?

Secondhand smoke contains thousands of toxins that can build up on surfaces and even within your pet’s fur. By minimizing smoke exposure, you help your pet breathe easier, maintain a healthy weight and reduce their risk of developing conditions such as cancer, respiratory issues and other related health challenges.

How can I reduce the risk of secondhand smoke?

Many pet owners don’t realize that passive smoking could harm their furry companion, but small changes can lead to big improvements in your pet’s well-being. Consider these actionable steps:

• Smoke outdoors and away from pets to limit their exposure to harmful chemicals.
• Use air purifiers and keep windows open whenever possible to improve ventilation.
• Wash your hands after smoking and avoid handling your pets or their belongings immediately afterward.
• Clean your home regularly, especially carpets and furniture, to reduce lingering toxins.
• Always keep ashtrays, cigarette butts, vaping devices and e-liquids out of reach—not just for cleanliness but for safety as well.

Can I vape around my pets? 

While vaping is often considered less harmful, the risks to pets remain high. The primary risk that vaping presents to pets is the e-liquid itself, especially those containing nicotine, as they can be dangerous even in small amounts. Since e-cigarettes are tempting for pets because they have interesting smells and flavors, it’s important to put some extra effort into keeping your animals safe:

• Always store vape devices and refills safely out of reach as pets may chew on the e-cigarettes and even a tiny crack in the glass cartridge could put your cat or dog at risk of harm from the e-juice. 
• Vape outdoors, when possible, and thoroughly air out any indoor spaces before allowing pets to enter.
• Safely dispose of empty pods or cartridges to prevent curious pets from accidental contact or swallowing parts of the e-cigarette.

If you do vape around your pet, consider a vape without nicotine as the vapor disappears quicker and won’t linger in the air. 

What is thirdhand smoking?

Thirdhand smoke is dust, residue and particles (also known as atmospheric aerosol particles) that cling to clothes, surfaces and fur which can pose an ongoing risk to your pet’s health. It’s a build-up from secondhand smoke, which eventually becomes irremovable from your home. Routine cleaning and attentive habits go a long way in reducing these risks and keeping your living environment fresh but won’t remove the risk entirely.

How does thirdhand smoking affect my pet?

Many smokers are aware of the damaging effects that their habit is causing on their pets and may choose to open windows, use air filters or take smoking breaks outside every now and then. However safe these tactics may seem, there is no definitive risk-free level for your pets from secondhand and thirdhand smoking. By licking their own fur, claws, and coming into contact with tobacco-tainted furniture in and around the home, pets can ingest harmful substances and put themselves at further risk of health issues. Thirdhand smoke may even be as damaging to our pet’s health as secondhand smoke. 

By creating a smoke-free environment, you improve the wellbeing of every member of your family, including those with paws, wings or fins. Prioritizing your pet’s health today leads to a happier, healthier companion for years to come.

If you are ready to quit smoking or would like to learn more about what to expect, visit Ochsner’s Smoking Cessation Program.