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Can You Put Baking Soda in Cat Litter? Vet-Reviewed Safety Facts
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Cats are wonderful animals, but many owners complain about their smelly litter boxes. While many brands claim to eliminate the odor, some use a fragrance that smells almost as bad and might cause your pet to stop using it. One popular remedy is baking soda, which is fragrance-free and great at absorbing odors, but is it safe for cats?
The answer is no; baking soda should not be the first choice when trying to solve a smelly litter box. Keep reading to learn why adding baking soda to your cat’s litter box should be avoided.
The 4 Potential Risks of Using Baking Soda in Cat Litter
Baking soda is commonly used in baking as a rising agent in muffins, cupcakes, and cookies. Some people also use it to reduce food odors in their fridges. This is probably why people think (and hope!) that baking soda would take the edge off a pungent little box. But there are several reasons why this is not a safe idea.
1. Allergies or Sensitivities
Some cats may be allergic or sensitive to baking soda. Watch for adverse reactions in your cat, such as sneezing or excessive grooming, and discontinue use if you notice any.
2. Ingestion Risk
Cats are known for their curiosity and may ingest small amounts of litter. While baking soda is safe in small quantities, eating large amounts can be harmful, so discontinue use if you notice your cat using it as a snack. Plus, there is insufficient research on the long-term effects of ingesting baking soda.
3. Respiratory Issues
Baking soda dust can become airborne when your cat digs in the litter box, irritating your cat’s respiratory system. Always maintain good ventilation in the litter box area, which will also help disperse fumes.
4. Litter Type Compatibility
Some types of cat litter may not work well with baking soda. For example, clumping litter with moisture-absorbing properties may not benefit from additional baking soda.
The 3 Alternatives to Baking Soda
1. Regular Cleaning
Don’t want the litter box smelling? Scoop your cat’s litter box daily, and replace the litter regularly to prevent odors from building up. Being diligent about cleaning is the most effective way to keep odors away.
2. Choose High-Quality Litter
Invest in a high-quality cat litter designed for odor control and moisture absorption. Many premium litters use special ingredients that work to neutralize odors effectively.
3. Ventilation
Maintain good ventilation in the area where the litter box is in order to reduce odor concentration.
Conclusion
Baking soda might seem like a quick solution to litter box odors, but it's not the best solution for that problem. It's unclear how cats will react to baking soda if it's ingested. We do not want to put our cats at risk over something that can be solved with everyday cleaning. It won’t be pleasant, but your home won’t have a lingering odor. And a clean litter box is healthier for your cat!
Sources
Featured Image Credit: Geo-grafika, Shutterstock
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Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. She’s the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. She’s always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat can live happy, healthy, and care-free.
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