For those who entrust the care of their cats to professional pet-sitters, again just because the individual didn’t smoke during the interview process doesn’t mean they wouldn’t light up around your pet; request that if they must smoke to please do it outside the home or in a room where the cat isn’t likely to go.
For those who travel with their cat, be sure to check in advance the types of accommodations that pet-friendly properties designate for their four-legged guests. In the book, “On the Road with Man’s Best Friend” by Dawbert Press, Inc., when the pet policy is explained, at least one national chain stated that “pets are welcome in smoking rooms.”
While more research is required to determine longer-term effects of second-hand smoke on cats, it is conclusive that ETS does cause serious and frequently irreversible damage leading to dire medical problems in humans. According to the American Cancer Society, one non-smoker dies of second-hand smoke for every eight mainstream smokers (a person who exhales smoke). An estimated 53,000 Americans die each year from heart disease, lung cancer, and other cancers caused by ETS exposure, making passive smoke the third most preventable cause of death in the United States.
As your cat’s primary caregiver, if not his best friend, keep in mind that whatever happens to you health-wise could directly affect the future care and well-being of your precious pet.
So, for those you love, and for those who unconditionally love and depend upon you, try to create a smoke-free environment and eliminate exposure to second-hand smoke.
