A CAMPAIGN urging smokers to stop lighting up around their pets – because the toxic fumes could kill them – has been launched by the PDSA vet charity.

Second-hand smoke has long been linked to potentially fatal diseases in humans, including lung cancer and heart disease.

However, the charity says the impact of passive smoking on pets is just as serious – and just as avoidable.

Now, to coincide with National No Smoking Day, PDSA is urging owners to kick the habit – for their pets’ sake.

PDSA vet Olivia Anderson-Nathan said: “Many people are unaware of the risks that smoking can have on their pets’ health.

“If they knew, I’m sure they would want to protect them.

“Our vets and nurses regularly see the devastating impact smoking can have on pets.

“Problems range from issues like asthma and chronic coughing through to fatal conditions.

“Cancers such as lymphoma, for example, are twice as likely in cats exposed to cigarette smoke.

“Recent studies highlight that this is a really serious issue and we want pet owners to know that they can make a real difference by simply choosing to smoke outdoors away from their pets.”

For more information, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/nosmoking.