Air purifiers have become essential appliances in many homes, especially with increasing AQI levels. But are they safe for your furry friends?
According to Mars Petcare Senior Veterinarian Dr. Umesh Kallahalli, air purifiers are generally safe and can benefit humans and pets by reducing allergens, pet dander, and pollutants in the air. However, he emphasizes that choosing the right purifier is important to ensure comfort and safety for pets.
Noise level: a key consideration
Dr Kallahalli points out some Air purifiers make noise That can cause anxiety in pets, especially if they produce high-pitched tones or operate loudly. To minimize this, he recommends choosing models with noise levels below 50 decibels (dB), such as a quiet conversation.
Many modern purifiers now have “silent” or “night” modes designed to operate with minimal noise, making them more pet-friendly. This thoughtful design can reduce stress on noise-sensitive animals.
Increased air pollution affects not only you, but also your pets. (Source: Freepik)
Choosing a Pet-Safe Air Purifier
When selecting an air purifier for a home with pets, Dr. Kallahalli recommends considering these factors:
- Avoid ozone-generating purifiers
Ozone can harm humans and animals, so it’s best to avoid purifiers with ozone-producing features. Instead, choose models with HEPA or activated carbon filters, which effectively capture allergens and odors without compromising safety. - Quiet operation
Loud or high-pitched noises can stress pets, especially those with sensitive hearing. To maintain a quiet environment for your pets, a purifier with a noise level below 50 decibels (dB) is ideal. - Room size and purifier coverage
Make sure the purifier is the right size for the room. A unit that is too small may fail to filter air effectively, while an oversized one may create unwanted noise or air circulation, potentially disturbing pets. - Washable pre-filters
Purifiers with washable pre-filters can benefit households with pets. These pre-filters capture larger particles such as pet hair, reducing the need for frequent filter replacement and saving costs. - Certified safety standards
When purchasing an air purifier, check for certifications and compliance with safety standards. This ensures that the device is effective and safe for all members of the household.
Clean air can make a significant difference in the comfort and overall health of pets, especially those with respiratory sensitivities or allergies.
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