How to Help Protect Pets from Indoor Air Pollution

If you share your home with furry pets, you’ve likely taken steps to reduce their impact on your indoor air quality, such as bathing them frequently and keeping them off furniture. But, have you thought about how pollution affects animals? Here are simple steps you can take to help your pets out. 

Avoid smoking indoors

Just like humans, secondhand and third-hand smoke (residue left behind on surfaces, furniture and clothes) can affect the furriest—and scaliest—residents of our homes. From dogs and cats to birds, guinea pigs and fish. Quitting is the best prevention, but even smoking outside can reduce a pet’s exposure to the 7,000 chemicals found in one cigarette.*      

Clean frequently

Shedding is an inevitable part of owning most pets, and their fur and dander can be just as irritating for them as it is for you. Develop a consistent dusting and vacuuming schedule to help keep allergens under control. Another idea? Establish a grooming routine that will cut down on that pesky shedding in the first place. 

Use pet-friendly products

Everyday cleaning products that are considered safe for humans could very well be harmful to animals. In 2017, household items were one of the top 10 toxins for pets, making up 8.6 percent of all poisoning cases.** Avoid ingredients such as ammonia and bleach, and instead look for labels that contain phrases like “pet-safe” and “non-toxic.” Keep supplies locked away when they’re not in use.  

Change air filters regularly

It’s recommended that you install a new 1-inch HVAC filter every three months, but pet owners should consider doing this more often. If you link your Filtrete™ Smart Air Filter to the Smart App, it will alert you when it’s time for a change. Additionally, consider purchasing air purifiers for the rooms your pet frequents most often.

Sources:

* https://www.lung.org/stop-smoking/smoking-facts/whats-in-a-cigarette.html

** https://www.aspca.org/news/announcing-top-pet-toxins-2017