LOS ANGELES — Veterinarians across the western United States are issuing urgent advisories as wildfire smoke from the ongoing 2026 fire season creates dangerous air quality conditions for pets, particularly dogs, cats, and birds.
Unlike humans, pets cannot communicate respiratory discomfort and may continue normal activity even as smoke particles damage their airways. The American Veterinary Medical Association recommends keeping pets indoors with windows closed during Air Quality Index readings above 100.
Birds are especially vulnerable to airborne toxins. Veterinary toxicologists note that avian respiratory systems are highly sensitive — smoke concentrations that are merely uncomfortable for humans can be fatal to pet birds within hours.
Dogs and cats exposed to prolonged wildfire smoke may develop coughing, wheezing, lethargy, and eye discharge. Brachycephalic breeds — including bulldogs, pugs, and Persian cats — face heightened risk due to their compressed airways.
Restoration contractors working in wildfire-affected areas should advise homeowners to relocate pets before beginning smoke remediation work, as disturbing soot and char can temporarily spike indoor particulate levels above outdoor concentrations.
