Which Pets Hate Vaping? How Your Furry Friends Feel About It

Vaping and nicotine products are popular smoking alternatives for humans, but for pets, they really don't have any say in your lifestyle habits!

So, if you've ever wondered, "Do my pets hate vaping?", and you think the answer might be “yes,” then this article is for you.

Whether you have curious cats, playful dogs, or delicate birds, exposure to vaping can be confusing for some animals.

We’re here today to give you a better understanding of which pets (from cats and dogs to birds, reptiles, and fish) can be affected. We've got some practical steps to help you protect your furry, feathery, or scaly friends from feeling uncomfortable in your (their) home.

So, Which Pets Hate Vaping?

Can Vaping Kill Cats? Here’s What’s Happening

Cats are often cited as among the most sensitive pets you can have when it comes to vaping. It’s because cats are sensitive to certain chemicals found in e-liquids, such as propylene glycol. Propylene glycol is a common solvent in e-liquids that can cause a serious and sometimes fatal blood disorder in cats called Heinz body anemia.

Cats may “hate” vaping more than many other companion animals just because they find the odour and sensation more irritating. If you’d like to help your household cats feel more comfortable, it’s advisable to vape outdoors. The best way to avoid your cat's exposure to harmful chemicals and other toxins found in vape liquids is to hide them and avoid liquid spillage.

Dogs and Small Mammals (Rabbits, Hamsters, Guinea Pigs, Ferrets, Mice, Rats)

We’ve talked specifically about dogs and vaping in the past.

But, here’s a quick recap: Dogs, like cats, (and most other small mammals!) love to sniff around e-cigarette cartridges, e-liquids, refill cartridges, and vape liquids, all of which can be extremely dangerous for them to ingest. Pet poisoning can occur not only from liquids but also from chewing on empty cartridges left within reach. Ingesting nicotine from electronic cigarettes or e-liquids can cause severe poisoning in dogs and small mammals.

The same rules that apply to cats also apply to dogs, so keep all hardware out of reach of these pets.

Birds

Birds are often cited by veterinarians and avian specialists as especially sensitive to airborne toxins because their respiratory systems are delicate. So, it's important to remember that even small concentrations of e-cig vapour can cause lung irritation and leave residue on feathers or surfaces that may be ingested during preening.

Reptiles, Amphibians, and Fish

Reptiles and amphibians may suffer if nicotine liquids enter their water. Vape residue and e-liquids can contaminate water with foreign substances like nicotine, so it’s advisable to keep your vaping and accessories away from tanks and terraria.

Our Advice? Use Nicotine Pouches, Nicotine Strips & “Low-Fragrance” Freebase Liquids

Pets, especially cats, birds, and small mammals, are disproportionately irritable to nicotine vapours.

But remember: No matter how much your pets may hate vaping, there’s far more proof that smoking (whether traditional cigarettes or cigars) is far more irritable for pets!

Generally we recommend nicotine pouches / nicotine strips to pet owners who are looking to ease any potential for irritation. These nicotine replacement products deliver nicotine orally rather than by inhalation. They don’t generate vapour, so they don’t directly expose pets to secondhand vapour.

If You’d Prefer To Vape, Here Are 2 Important Things to Remember:

1. Protect Pets from Vaping Hardware

Curious animals may chew on or accidentally ingest e-liquids, leading to toxic exposure and nicotine poisoning. Even a small amount of ingested nicotine or propylene glycol can be harmful.

To keep your pets safe, always store vaping devices, e-liquids, and refill cartridges securely out of reach. Be mindful when using vaping devices around pets, as vape smoke contains harmful chemicals that can affect their health. If you suspect your pet has experienced accidental ingestion of any vaping product, seek veterinary care right away to prevent severe consequences.

2. Create a Safe Environment for Pets

After handling vaping devices or nicotine products, wash your hands thoroughly to avoid transferring any residue to your pets.

Also it's a great idea to ventilate thoroughly before reintroducing pets (open windows, use fans).