KOTA KINABALU, Oct. 21 -- Haze and poor air quality are taking a toll on pets, with veterinarians reporting respiratory problems in cats, birds and dogs, including cases requiring oxygen therapy, as polluted air continues to affect parts of Malaysia.

Dr Wendy Cheng of Noah's Ark Veterinary Clinic said fine particles in polluted air, including PM2.5, could irritate animals' respiratory systems and aggravate existing heart or lung conditions.

She said she had personally seen cats experiencing asthma attacks and birds breathing with their mouths open, while a puppy had recently required oxygen therapy and nebulisation at a clinic.

"Symptoms owners should watch for include sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, watery or irritated eyes, whee...