It seems that smoky hazes and smog due to surrounding forest fires intermittently shrouding the skies is becoming an increasingly common occurrence. This smoke is detrimental to our health as much as it is to our pets.
Poor air quality can cause significant irritation and inflammation in the lungs, so outdoor activity should be avoided when the air is smoky. Pets with respiratory conditions should be especially careful of this. For example, cats with feline asthma can have asthma attacks or flareups as a result of exposure, or pets with bronchitis can have flareups as well. Animals with tracheal collapse can have coughing fits due to respiratory tract irritation and thus result in aggravation of their symptoms. Combined with the heat which is usually associated with these smoky spells, animals may breathe faster and respiratory issues can be compounded exponentially and rapidly. We recommend to keep outdoor activity limited, and to keep your windows closed if possible.
If your pet is still being affected indoors, consider purchasing an air purifier. Many of these contain hepa-filters and a carbon filter, which helps to remove the pollutants as well as the odors from the air.
If your pet is suffering from respiratory issues, contact your veterinarian to see if there is anything else that can be done to help. Similar to people, some animals may benefit from inhaled medications to help reduce respiratory symptoms.
