Terri Adams
14/03/2025 • 5 min read
If you’re a cat owner who vapes, you might be wondering — is vaping around cats bad? We all know that traditional cigarette smoke can be harmful to pets, but what about vape aerosol?
It's important to consider the safety of vaping in the same room as your pets, as they can be exposed to harmful substances.
Although vaping is often seen as a potentially less harmful alternative to smoking, there are still a few things to consider when it comes to your furry friend. From airborne particles to third-hand residue, let’s explore how vaping may impact your cat and what you can do to keep them safe.
Check out nicotine pouchesVaping, also known as e-cigarette use, has surged in popularity over the past decade. Many people see it as a safer alternative to traditional cigarette smoking. Vaping devices, such as e-cigarettes and vape pens, work by heating a liquid solution known as vape juice or e-juice. This liquid typically contains nicotine, flavourings, and other chemicals. When heated, the liquid turns into vapour, which the user then inhales.
The appeal of vaping lies in its versatility and perceived reduced risk. Many individuals turn to e-cigarettes as a tool to quit smoking, finding it easier to manage their nicotine intake with vaping devices. Others enjoy vaping as a recreational activity, experimenting with various flavours and vaping accessories. Regardless of the reason, the rise of vaping has been significant, making it a common sight in many households.
Vaping indoors can release small amounts of nicotine, vaping chemicals, and other compounds into the air. While it’s far less intense than cigarette smoke, cats have delicate respiratory systems, meaning even mild exposure could cause irritation. Some cats may be more sensitive than others, and reactions can vary from mild discomfort to occasional coughing.
If your cat seems unaffected, that’s great! But to play it safe, it’s best to keep the area well-ventilated. Cracking a window or vaping in a different room can help minimise their exposure and keep their environment fresh.
Although vaping might be a popular choice for humans, it can have serious consequences for cats and other pets. When pets are exposed to vape smoke, they can ingest harmful chemicals, including nicotine, propylene glycol, and formaldehyde. These substances can lead to a range of health problems in felines, from respiratory illnesses to more severe conditions like seizures and tremors.
Cats, in particular, are highly susceptible to the dangers of vaping due to their small size and sensitive respiratory systems. Ingesting vape liquid or e-juice can be especially toxic, leading to nicotine poisoning. Symptoms of nicotine poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and even death if left untreated. It’s crucial for pet owners to be aware of these risks and take steps to protect their furry friends.
Secondhand vape smoke poses a significant risk to cats and other pets. When cats inhale vape smoke, they can develop respiratory problems, including coughing, difficulty breathing, and asthma-like symptoms. Additionally, exposure to secondhand vape smoke can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, tremors, and even death.
To minimise these risks, pet owners should take precautions to prevent their pets from being exposed to secondhand vape smoke. Vaping in a well-ventilated area or using a vape device with a child-resistant lock can help reduce the chances of your cat inhaling harmful chemicals. By being mindful of where and how you vape, you can help ensure a safer environment for your feline companion.
Can Vaping Kill Cats?
Here’s the short answer: Vape aerosol itself is unlikely to be fatal to cats. However, the real danger comes from e-liquids.
Nicotine, even in small doses, can be highly toxic to pets if ingested directly. Cats are naturally curious, and if they lick up spilt e-liquid or chew on a vape pod, it could lead to serious health issues. If ingested e-juice contains propylene glycol, it can cause Heinz body anaemia in cats, necessitating immediate veterinary care.
Vape cartridges also pose a significant risk. The nicotine in vape cartridges can be toxic if ingested by pets, leading to symptoms of nicotine poisoning in dogs. Pet owners should be vigilant in the storage and disposal of vaping products to prevent accidental ingestion.
If you suspect your cat has ingested nicotine, contact a vet immediately. The good news? Accidental exposure is easy to prevent — just store your vape gear securely and wipe up any spills as soon as they happen.
Explore vapour-free options like nicotine stripsWe’ve all heard of second-hand smoke, but third-hand vaping is something to consider too. This refers to the residue left behind on surfaces, furniture, and even your cat’s fur after vaping.
Because cats are meticulous groomers, they might lick up tiny traces of vape residue when cleaning themselves. Although the risk is relatively low, it’s still a good idea to wash your hands before petting your cat, clean surfaces regularly to remove any build-up, and vape in a well-ventilated area to limit residue. These simple steps help keep your cat’s environment clean and safe. Additionally, ensuring the environment is pet safe by being aware of pet toxins and taking precautions around vaping products is crucial.
Nicotine addiction is a human issue, but that doesn’t mean cats are completely unaffected. While they don’t typically get exposed to enough nicotine to form a habit, regular exposure could lead to minor effects like increased heart rate or restlessness after being near vape clouds.
The best approach? Avoid vaping directly near your cat, and always keep nicotine products out of reach. A little extra caution goes a long way in keeping your pet comfortable.
So, what’s the verdict? Vaping around cats is not as risky as traditional smoking, but some precautions are still a good idea.
If you vape at home, try to do it in a separate room or ensure good airflow to reduce your cat’s exposure. Always store e-liquids and vape devices safely, especially if your cat is prone to exploring. Regular cleaning can also help minimise third-hand vaping risks, so wiping down surfaces and washing pet bedding often is a smart move.
At the end of the day, vaping may be a potentially reduced-risk alternative to smoking, but it’s still important to be mindful of your pet’s health. With a few easy adjustments, you can enjoy vaping while keeping your feline friend safe and happy.
