Indoor cats are exposed to household pollutants that can affect respiratory health, making air quality an underappreciated component of feline welfare.
Cats with compromised respiratory systems - either from asthma, chronic bronchitis, or environmental irritation - experience reduced quality of life. Breathing difficulties cause anxiety, reduce activity levels, and may disrupt sleep. Unlike humans who can choose to avoid irritants, indoor cats are entirely dependent on their owners to maintain good air quality. Eliminating common household irritants, choosing low-dust litter, and ensuring good ventilation are low-cost interventions with meaningful welfare benefits.