Is Baking Soda Safe for Dogs and Cats?

Baking soda is an ingredient that is increasingly being used in dental products for pets, including dental finger wipes and toothpaste, due to its abrasive and naturally cleansing properties. Some human toothpaste also contains baking soda for this reason, as well. However, the question of whether baking soda is safe for dogs and cats has been raised due to the negative side effects ingesting large quantities can cause. In this article, we will discuss the safety of using baking soda on dogs and cats, its benefits, and potential risks.

The answer to whether baking soda is safe or not for pets depends on the quantity of ingestion. Baking soda has a high alkaline content, which can disturb the acid balance in your pet's digestive tract and stomach if ingested in larger quantities. This is mainly applicable to toothpastes containing baking soda which can lead to direct ingestion as they can’t rinse and spit like we can. However, the use of baking soda in dental wipes, such as HICC Pet® Dental Finger Wipes, is minimal, and there is no direct ingestion of baking soda. This means that only the benefits of baking soda remain. In summary, larger amounts of baking soda are toxic to dogs and cats, and pet owners should avoid it.

If your pet has directly ingested baking soda, it’s crucial to keep an eye out for the following signs of baking soda toxicity:

• Shortness of breath

• Tremors

• Seizures

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Depression

• Lethargy

• Disorientation

If your pet is showing signs of baking soda toxicity, take your pet to the emergency vet immediately and contact your regular veterinarian.

Baking soda is a natural and versatile substance that finds its way into many dental products. This ingredient is known for its exceptional cleaning, whitening, and deodorizing abilities that can leave teeth, gums, and mouth feeling fresh and healthy. Baking soda is also known for its potent antimicrobial properties that can help eliminate harmful bacteria from the gum line and in between teeth. With regular use of baking soda, you can not only prevent tooth decay in your pets but also help restore the minerals in their enamel and reduce plaque buildup by neutralizing plaque acids.

The takeaway of this article is that baking soda is a natural remedy for cleaning and removing plaque, but it's crucial to remember that consuming large amounts of it can lead to baking soda toxicity in pets Some common symptoms of baking soda toxicity include shortness of breath, disorientation, vomiting, and seizures. If you notice any of these symptoms in your pet, it's essential to take them to an emergency vet as soon as possible. In case your pet has ingested a considerable amount of baking soda but is not showing any symptoms, it's advisable to call the pet poison hotline or your regular veterinarian for further guidance.