Solved: Does Radon Come Back after Mitigation?

Radon is an invisible and odorless gas that seeps into homes from the soil. Most people know it can harm humans, but fewer realize pets breathe the same air and often spend even more time indoors.

Short answer: Yes. Radon can affect your pets. Long-term exposure raises the risk of lung damage and cancer in animals just as it does in people, which is why testing and mitigation matter for the entire household.

Why radon is a pet health concern

Radon forms naturally as uranium in soil and rock breaks down. It enters through cracks in slabs, gaps around pipes, and sump pits, then collects in lower levels and poorly ventilated spaces. When radon decays, it releases radioactive particles that can lodge in lung tissue. Pets breathe these particles just like we do, which can damage cells over time.

Pets may be even more exposed

• Many animals nap close to the floor, where radon can concentrate.

• Basements and ground-level rooms can hold higher levels than upper floors.

• Pets often spend long, continuous periods indoors, which increases total exposure.

Signs to watch for in pets

There is no single sign that proves radon exposure, and many symptoms overlap with other conditions. Still, call your veterinarian if you notice:

• Persistent cough or noisy breathing

• Reduced activity or reluctance to play

• Unexplained weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• Recurrent respiratory infections

Only a licensed veterinarian can evaluate symptoms and order appropriate tests. The safest plan is to check the air your pets breathe rather than wait for symptoms.

Household risk factors that raise radon levels

• Homes with slab-on-grade or basement foundations

• Noticeable settling cracks in floors or walls

• Poor ventilation in the lower levels

• Seasonal changes that keep windows closed for long periods

• After weather events that saturate the ground and increase soil gas flow

Any home can have radon. Two houses next to each other can test very differently, which is why testing is the first step.

How to protect pets and people

1) Test your home

Use an approved radon test. Short-term tests run for two to seven days and are helpful for a quick read. Long-term tests run for about ninety days and smooth out daily swings. Place the device on the lowest level, away from doors, windows, and vents, and follow the instructions carefully. If the result is at or above 4.0 pCi per liter, schedule a follow-up test or move straight to mitigation.

2) Mitigate when levels are elevated

A standard mitigation system draws soil gas from beneath the slab and vents it outdoors above the roofline. Many homes see levels drop well below the action level within twenty-four hours of installation. Systems are quiet and energy use is minimal. The goal is consistent low readings year-round.

3) Monitor over time

After mitigation, retest within thirty days, then at least every two years, and after major renovations or foundation work. You should consider continuous radon monitoring if you want ongoing visibility and alerts.

4) Adjust daily routines while you fix the problem

• Spend less time in rooms with high readings until mitigation is complete.

• Create alternate rest areas for pets away from basements or ground-level rooms.

• Keep litter boxes, bedding, and food stations in well-ventilated areas.

Pet-specific tips by species

Dogs
Dogs often nap near entries and in basements where levels can be higher. Encourage rest areas on the main floor or upstairs until your home’s temperature drops. Regular walks add fresh air breaks.

Cats
Cats love warm, tucked away spaces. If a cat prefers a basement hideout, set up a cozy alternative on a higher level and keep the lower area well ventilated. Consider moving litter boxes upstairs temporarily.

Small mammals
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and ferrets often live in ground-level enclosures. Relocate cages to upper floors or stands that raise them off the floor until the readings are mitigated.

Reptiles
Terrariums placed low to the ground can sit in the highest zone of a room. Elevate enclosures on sturdy stands and ensure proper ventilation in the room.

Bottom line

Radon can harm pets because they share the same indoor air and often spend long hours in the areas where radon collects. Testing is simple, mitigation is reliable, and ongoing monitoring keeps the whole household safer. You can take the first step with a test, follow through with mitigation when needed, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your pets breathe cleaner air.