Passive smoking: also harmful to your pets

By The Editorial Allodocteurs.fr

Updated 12.30.2015 | 3:02 p.m., published on 12.30.2015 | 2:44 p.m.

Damaged cells, weight gain after castration and increased possibility of contracting certain cancers lurking animals exposed to cigarette smoke, said Clare Knottenbelt, Professor of Medicine and Oncology at the University of Glasgow Veterinary Institute, and author of the study.

"We have already demonstrated that dogs consume a significant amount of smoke when they live in a house. Our study shows that cats are even more affected, perhaps because of their careful toilet that would increase the amount of particles smoke absorbed by their body, "the professor said in a statement Tuesday by the University of Glasgow.

The study also noted that nicotine levels in the hair decrease significantly if consumption in the house drops below ten cigarettes a day.

Glasgow The researchers also found in the testes of males castrated damaged cells a marker gene, more present in dogs living in a smoking household.

This gene is altered in some dog cancer and it is less so when the owner smoke out of the house, reducing the exposure of her pet.

"The risk for smoking doubles the risk of passive smoking and for other dogs and cat owners often forget the risk they pose to their pets," said the professor, who argues for stopping tobacco, "the best solution for the health and well-being of your companion."