Veterinary surgeons across the UK are issuing an urgent plea to pet owners who use e-cigarettes, urging them to stop vaping indoors to protect their animals from serious illness. New guidance highlights a direct link between exposure to vapour and a range of harmful conditions in cats, dogs, and other domestic pets.
The Hidden Dangers of Vapour and E-Liquids
Experts warn that pets exposed to e-cigarette vapour can develop a alarming array of health issues. These include nausea, excessive drooling, skin conditions, allergic reactions, eye problems, heart disease, breathing difficulties, and even cancer. The risks extend beyond just the vapour; the physical devices and their toxic liquids present a major poisoning hazard if chewed or swallowed.
PDSA veterinary surgeon Catherine Burke, 36, emphasised the gravity of the situation. "We have always warned about the effects of secondhand smoke on pets," she stated. "The nicotine is highly toxic to animals. Then we have the vapour itself, which can include chemicals that may irritate pets' delicate airways."
Cats, Dogs, and Small Pets at Specific Risk
Different animals face distinct threats. Cats are especially vulnerable to developing asthma-like conditions from airborne irritants. They also risk poisoning themselves by grooming nicotine-laden vapour residue from their fur.
Dogs are more prone to bronchitis triggered by poor air quality and are often the victims of accidental ingestion of devices or liquids. Birds and smaller pets like rabbits are also at heightened danger due to their sensitive respiratory systems.
Dr Katharine Nelson, director of general practice at the Royal Veterinary College's Beaumont Sainsbury Animal Hospital in Camden, confirmed the trend. "Our vets commonly see pets with breathing difficulties," she said. "Conditions such as asthma in cats and bronchitis in dogs are often triggered or worsened by irritants in the air."
Critical Safety Advice for Pet Owners
Vets recommend a series of straightforward steps to safeguard pets. The primary advice is to avoid vaping anywhere near your pet. Where possible, use e-cigarettes outdoors to keep your home vapour-free.
If you do vape indoors, ensure the room is thoroughly ventilated before allowing your pet to enter. Crucially, always store vaping devices, cartridges, and liquids securely out of reach of inquisitive animals.
"Don't keep your vape in the same room as your pet," Catherine Burke advised. "And don't put your cartridges in the bin where dogs can go rummaging. It is just not worth the risk."
Pet owners should monitor their animals for warning signs, including a hacking cough, laboured breathing, or any other change in respiration, and seek prompt veterinary advice if symptoms appear.
Research Reveals Alarming Incident Numbers
The warnings are backed by sobering research. A study published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice examined over 300 incidents of dogs being exposed to e-liquids and vaping devices between 2011 and 2024.
The findings showed that while many animals exhibited only minor symptoms, others suffered severe poisoning, with at least one fatality recorded. The study also noted cases where pets had consumed batteries from the devices, causing internal damage.
By following the expert guidance, pet owners can significantly reduce these preventable risks and ensure a safer, healthier environment for their beloved companions.
