Uses for Sodium Bicarbonate in Pets

Sodium bicarbonate---found in baking soda and chewable antacid tablets---is inexpensive, easy to use and can have a variety of uses for pets. Sodium bicarbonate can help your pets cope with pain and improve their hygiene, and will also reduce pet odors and messes. Keep some extra baking soda and antacid tablets around your house to help maintain your pet's health and well being.

  1. Pain

    • According to MedicineNet, sodium bicarbonate reduces the amount of acid in the stomach and can relieve the discomfort associated with heartburn and indigestion. It can help your pet with stomach ailments. Check with your veterinarian first before giving sodium bicarbonate to your pet.

      During warmer months, when pets spend more time playing outdoors, the chances of bee stings increase. Bee stings commonly occur in the mouth, as pets often try biting flying insects. If you notice a bee has stung your pet, mix enough sodium bicarbonate with water to create a thick paste and apply it to the stung area. The sodium bicarbonate will cleanse the area and reduce the pain from the sting.

    Hygiene

    • Baking soda can be used to clean your pet's coat, and is especially beneficial if your pet is sensitive to shampoo. If your dog doesn't like to bathe using water, simply dust its coat with baking soda and brush it through. This will clean the coat without drying out the skin. If your pet likes water, add some sodium bicarbonate to its bathwater. This will increase shine in the coat as well as cleanse and deodorize.

      Sodium bicarbonate is also good for your pet's teeth. Brush its teeth with baking soda and a pet toothbrush, which can be purchased in any pet store. Sodium bicarbonate will help remove plaque and tartar, and ensure proper dental health.

    Odor Removal and Disinfectant

    • Since sodium bicarbonate is free of toxins, it is safe for use on common areas of the home where your pet likes to sleep or relax. Baking soda absorbs odors, making it a good tool for deodorizing carpets, furniture and bedding. Simply sprinkle it around your home and allow it to sit for a few minutes to absorb pet odors. Then vacuum up the powder and repeat weekly to keep the area odor free.

      Sodium bicarbonate also makes a handy disinfectant for pet toys. Just mix 1/4 cup baking soda with 1 qt. of hot water. Let the toys soak in the mixture to get them clean and disinfected, and allow them to dry before returning them to your pet.