Boric Acid and Cats

Borate or boric acid is a naturally occurring chemical derived from the element boron, found in streams, groundwater and soil. Boric acid is also used in a number of manmade products such as laundry detergents, bleaches, makeup and some medicines. The chemical nature of boric acid makes it an effective yet mild treatment for fleas. In addition, it can be used as a dilute eyewash. However, it must be used carefully with cats due to the possibility of poisoning. Dr. Christianne.Schelling, an expert in cat health, cautions that boric acid is toxic, yet boric acid is commonly found in many household products.

  1. Flea Treatment

    • Boric acid controls fleas in the house.

      Boric acid is often used as a mild homemade insecticide or weed killer. Boric acid can also be used to treat fleas. Boric acid treatment will not kill the fleas on your cat's body, but it is an effective way to control fleas in the household. It kills fleas by causing dehydration with its abrasive surface and by acting as a stomach poison. Sprinkle boric acid or borax onto your carpet after you have cleaned your carpet and it is completely dry. Allow the borax to sit for a day or two before vacuuming. Remove pets from the area during the one to two days the borax is settling. Borax can be purchased at your local hardware store or drug store.

    Eye Treatment

    • Boric acid can be used as an eye wash.

      Boric acid can be used as an eye treatment. It is an ingredient commonly found in consumer eyewash products. A diluted solution of boric acid to treat irritated or infected eyes can be prepared at home by boiling 200 ml of water and adding 1 tablespoon of boric acid powder. Mix the solution, and apply 2 drops in the irritated eye when the solution has cooled to lukewarm temperature. Apply twice a day. If irritation persists after 48 hours, stop applying the boric acid solution and try a different treatment. The treated eye may become itchy after application. A lampshade or Elizabethan collar may be required to prevent scratching.

    Household Products

    • Boric acid is found in many household products including insecticides, window cleaners, fertilizers and even mouthwash. Cat-proof your home by keeping potentially dangerous items secured in areas where your cat cannot get to.

    Symptoms of Poisoning

    • Boric acid can be toxic if used in high concentrations.

      Although it can be used as a mild insecticide and considered safer than those with harsher chemicals, oral or nasal ingestion can lead to poisoning. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty in breathing, muscle weakness and seizures. The United States Environmental Protection Agency reported that exposure to high concentrations of boric acid leads to reduction in pregnancy and birth defects. It also causes hormonal imbalances. Boric acid to treat fleas or as an eyewash is not recommended for kittens younger than six weeks of age. Kittens are particularly sensitive to chemicals in insecticides.

    Treatment

    • According to Dr. Foster and Dr. Smith, immediately wash the exposed area thoroughly with water if boric acid touches the skin. If ingested orally, boric acid poisoning can be treated by inducing vomiting. According to Cornell University's Department of Animal Science, in severe cases, boric acid poisoning is best treated through dialysis.