KUALA LUMPUR: When a pet owner posted on social media that their cat had died during the haze, the claim moved other animal lovers to raise an uncomfortable question - how much can polluted air affect our pets?
While a single case cannot establish that haze was responsible for an animal’s death, veterinarian Dr Muhammad Naim Kasim said cats and dogs can suffer respiratory effects when fine particles enter their airways.
“Pets have the same respiratory system as humans. When the environment is unhealthy due to haze, with dust and impurities in the air, it can affect the lung health of cats and dogs," he said.
Fine particles can irritate the respiratory tract and trigger inflammation, potentially making it harder for an animal to breathe. Naim said pet owners should pay attention to changes such as breathing difficulties and watery eyes, although these symptoms can have other causes and need veterinary assessment.
Animals with existing respiratory problems such as asthma may be particularly vulnerable during periods of poor air quality. Older pets and those with heart disease may also have less ability to cope when breathing becomes more difficult.
“My advice is that if we know our pets have heart disease, respiratory problems or other health conditions, try not to take them outdoors,” Naim added. “Keep them indoors and ensure that the air quality at home is good.”
Staying inside does not necessarily eliminate exposure, however: haze particles can enter homes through open windows and doors, so indoor air quality can still deteriorate when conditions outside are poor.
For pets accustomed to roaming outdoors, keeping them inside temporarily may be worthwhile when haze becomes severe, particularly if they already have a health condition.
Naim cautioned that prolonged exposure to polluted air could worsen inflammation in the lungs if an affected animal does not receive appropriate treatment.
"Similar to humans, if we spend a long time outdoors in a hazy environment and continuously breathe polluted air without prompt treatment, the inflammation can worsen," he explained.
"If left untreated for too long, there is a possibility that the animal could die."
The important point for owners is not to assume that every cough, watery eye or breathing problem is caused by haze. Those signs can occur with a range of illnesses, and an examination may be needed to determine what is actually wrong.
Animals struggling to breathe may require oxygen therapy, while medication depends on the underlying problem. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be used in some cases, while antibiotics would be appropriate if a bacterial infection is involved.
Ultimately, if your cat or dog appears to be struggling for breath, veterinary attention should not be delayed.