Air Pollution Can Harm Our Cats And Dogs
Many studies explain how air pollution affects humans. Air pollution and the harm it is doing to animals is now under study
Air Pollution: Does It Have the Same Affect On Our Pet?
Yes, living in a highly polluted area has the same affect on pets as it does on humans.
Where Does Air Pollution Come From?
Some of the sources that subject people and animals to air pollution are: Fumes from cars and trucks, diesel fuels, coal, gasoline, power plants, construction, and livestock all contribute to air pollution.
Smoking, cooking, and wood burning fireplaces or stoves in the home, pollutes the air.
Animals in urban areas are at particular risk of smog and exhaust pollutants. Suburban and rural animals are at risk to the toxins sprayed as insecticides, fungicides and herbicides.
Recent Studies On Dogs
Studies show that pets living with smokers may face greater risks than their owners, due to the considerable amount of time spent near the floor. A 2011 study found that cats living in a smoke free home had fewer problems with the functioning of their lungs. Scientists have linked human indoor activities (cleaning products, smoking, etc.) to carcinogens that can cause mesothelioma, bladder, lung, and nasal cancer in dogs.
Outside air, pollution harms animals. A published report stated, “[t]he Mexico City dogs’ brains showed increased inflammation and pathology including amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, clumps of proteins that serve as a primary marker for Alzheimer’s disease in humans. 
Recent Studies On Cats
Cat lover? Scientists in one study found that one in ten cats have asthma related to indoor and outdoor air pollutants. Cats that lived with owners who smoke or burn wood fires have severely decreased lung function.
What Can You Do To Help your Pet?
- Protect your indoor air
- Change your home’s air filter regularly
- Vacuum frequently to remove pet hair and other indoor air pollutants.
- Avoid smoking indoors
- Choose your cleaning products carefully.
- Take the bus or carpool
- Avoid exercising your pets in high-traffic areas.
- Ask at your garden store for less toxic alternatives to chemical pesticides.