Vaping around animals
A^ Few animal studies have been performed
to evaluate the potential harm of vaping
smoke on pets, so most information is drawn
from human studies. While e-cigarettes
have less tars and extraneous materials in
the vapour compared to cigarette smoke,
diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol (both
known to be nephrotoxic) have been detected
in the vapour from e-cigarettes, however the
levels are quite low.
Exposure to nicotine does occur in
those inhaling second-hand vapours from
e-cigarettes, and this could be a more
significant potential health risk to pets. Studies
in humans have found that e-cigarettes may
be toxic to airway cells, which results in
suppression of the defences, and can stimulate
inflammation over time. From this, the same
is assumed to occur in animals exposed
to the vapours. If your pet has underlying
respiratory issues, like chronic bronchitis,
feline asthma or is a brachycephalic breed,
Q (^) Is vaping smoke bad for animals, and if so, why?
the vapors could worsen their clinical signs.
If a pet eats or chews on the actual liquid or
refill of the e-cigarette then clinical signs may
be seen due to the ingestion of the nicotine.
Nicotine’s oral bioavailability is poor but if
large quantities are ingested clinical signs
like vomiting, diarrhoea, hypersalivation and
a fast heartrate can be seen. If this occurs the
pet should be taken to a vet immediately.
Dr Vanessa Mcclure, veterinarian
FOCUS
your questions answered
HEALTH, NUTRITION, BE HAVIOU R & TRAINING
FA S T FAC T S
When inhaled, second-hand smoke may cause:
- respiratory illnesses
- cancer
Third-hand smoke on the coat may cause:- breathing problems
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- unusual salivation
- irregular heartbeat