Is the use of boric acid dangerous to cats, dogs, and other small pets? What causes the intoxication, what symptoms should I expect, and how can the poisoning be treated and prevented?
Boric acid is a naturally occurring substance found in soil, water, and volcanic ash. It has many uses, including antiseptic, flame retardant, monofilament fiberglass, and insecticide (including flea medicine).
Slight variations of this chemical compound include orthoboric acid, hydrogen borate, and boric acid.
Is boric acid harmful to cats and other pets?
Although boric acid can be very harmful in high doses, it is not as dangerous to cats, dogs, and other smaller pets as other household products used for pest control because it is not toxic to living cells.
It can cause minor irritation of the skin and eyes, but in amounts that should pass from the body without causing serious side effects. However, if your pet has ingested a large amount of boric acid, call a veterinarian immediately!
Moreover, Chicago Tribune reports that cats are unlikely to lick up this solution. They’re far more likely instead to snack on something off the floor which has the solution spilled onto it and then contaminated.
Toxicity symptoms
When exposed to specific amounts of monoxide gas, cats may show signs of poisoning. If very large amounts are inhaled or ingested, irregular heartbeats and seizures may be experienced.
It is crucial for your pet’s sake that you store any pesticides and other potentially toxic chemicals in a place that is not easily accessed by them (such as a high cupboard).
Unfortunately, many people do not know the risks of ingesting any poison gases, so it is important to make sure that both children and pets alike are aware that they should never put anything in their mouth unless they have been told to do so by an adult.
On your pet’s skin, expect some irritation, redness, and swelling, which will worsen if the affected area has wounds or cuts.
Treatment
If you ingest boric acid in large amounts, call your veterinarian immediately. Activated charcoal will have no effect, and administering forced vomiting could cause more harm than good.
Wash off any remaining residue if you come into contact with it. Your vet will conduct a toxicology evaluation and support your pet through treatment while attempting to bring boron concentrations down to normal levels in the blood.
Boric acid poisoning can be fatal so if there is any suspicion of exposure, seek immediate veterinary assistance.
Most Common Poisons To Pets
Is boric acid safe for pets .The following list has been formulated as the most common causes of pet poisoning that we have encountered over the past five years.
The most common poisons affecting pets are:
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- non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as paracetamol, ibuprofen, meloxicam
- anti-depressants, heart medications, ADHD medications
How to prevent poisoning
To reduce the chances of poisoning in cats eat boric acid:
Read and follow all the instructions on the label.
- Store it safely in places where your pets or children cannot access
- Use gloves when handling granules or powder, as well as surgical masks to avoid inhaling it.
- Apply it in crevices, cracks and remove any excess that may spill off.
