For pet owners across California and much of the West, wildfire smoke and evacuation orders have become a seasonal reality. A little preparation protects both your pet's lungs and your peace of mind.
- 🐠 Fish: Never change all the water at once; small regular partial changes keep conditions stable.
- 🦜 Birds: Birds need long, uninterrupted dark sleep — aim for a consistent quiet nighttime routine.
- 🐱 Cats: One litter box per cat, plus one extra, in quiet spots reduces stress and accidents.
Smoke and air quality
Wildfire smoke affects pets much like people — it can irritate eyes and airways, and is riskier for animals with heart or respiratory conditions. On poor air-quality days, keep pets indoors, limit strenuous exercise, and watch for coughing, labored breathing or fatigue.
Birds are especially sensitive to airborne irritants and need extra protection when air quality drops.
Be evacuation-ready
Prepare a pet go-bag before you need it: several days of food and water, medications, bowls, a leash/carrier, vaccination and medical records, and a current photo of you with your pet in case you're separated. Make sure ID tags and microchip details are up to date.
Include pets in your household evacuation plan and know pet-friendly shelter or lodging options in advance — deciding under pressure is harder.
Key Takeaways for Pet Owners
- Wildfire smoke irritates pets' airways — keep them indoors and calm on smoky days
- Watch for coughing or labored breathing, especially in birds and pets with heart/lung issues
- Prepare a pet go-bag: food, water, meds, records, carrier and a photo
- Keep ID and microchip info current and include pets in your evacuation plan