Haze is making pets sick too: Malaysian vets report cats suffering asthma attacks, dogs needing oxygen therapy

KOTA KINABALU, Oct 21 — Haze and declining air quality are impacting pets, with veterinarians reporting respiratory issues in cats, birds, and dogs, including instances needing oxygen therapy, as the polluted air persists across Malaysia. Dr Wendy Cheng of Noah's Ark Veterinary Clinic noted that fine particles, including PM2.5, in the air can irritate an animal's respiratory system and worsen existing heart or lung conditions.

She had witnessed cats experiencing asthma attacks and birds struggling to breathe, while a puppy recently required oxygen therapy and nebulisation at her clinic. "Owners should watch for symptoms such as sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, watery or irritated eyes, wheezing, rapid breathing, reduced appetite, and unusual lethargy," she advised.

Open-mouth breathing, especially in cats, or noticeable difficulty breathing should be treated as a medical emergency. Dr Randolf Paza, a Sabah-based veterinarian with 37,000 Facebook followers, reported that veterinary clinics and animal shelters in Peninsular Malaysia have also seen pets with respiratory problems due to poor air quality.

He cautioned that pets may exhibit symptoms resembling choking but are actually coughing, and some recover from oxygen therapy while others continue to show signs. "Prolonged exposure to smoke and fine airborne particles is dangerous as the tiny particles can settle in the lungs, making breathing difficult," Dr Paza warned. He added that prolonged exposure could affect an animal's appetite and potentially lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Dr Cheng recommended keeping pets indoors as much as possible, limiting outdoor walks and strenuous activities, closing windows, using air purifiers with HEPA filters, and providing access to fresh water. She also advised avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke, incense, scented candles, and aerosol sprays indoors. For senior animals, flat-faced breeds, and pets with existing heart or respiratory conditions, closer monitoring is necessary.

As Malaysia continues to deal with haze from Indonesian forest and peatland fires, 27 areas reported unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings on October 19, with Johan Setia in Selangor recording the highest at 172. API readings between 101 and 200 are considered unhealthy. If animals show severe respiratory distress, veterinary clinics may provide oxygen therapy through delivery devices or chambers.

Early intervention is crucial, as prolonged exposure to polluted air can result in life-threatening respiratory complications.