Boric Acid and Pets
Find out if Boric Acid is toxic to dogs and cats.
Think your pet ate something toxic?
Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 or view emergency guide
Boric acid and related borate compounds are common active ingredients in household insecticides used to control ants, cockroaches, silverfish, and other crawling pests. While often described as low to moderate in toxicity, these products can still harm dogs and cats if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through broken skin. Pets may be exposed by licking powder residue from floors or paws, chewing on bait stations, or grooming contaminated fur.
Cats are generally more sensitive to boric acid than dogs, and even moderate ingestions can cause significant gastrointestinal upset and possible kidney injury. Dogs may experience vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and increased thirst or urination. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, or kidney damage can occur. Because powders and dusts cling to paws and fur, pets can swallow the toxin while grooming without owners noticing.
To reduce risk, apply boric acid only in areas that pets cannot reach, such as inside wall voids, behind appliances, inside locked cabinets, or under heavy furniture. Keep all bait stations and containers out of reach, and restrict pet access to treated areas until dusts are settled or contained. Avoid applying powder to open floors, pet bedding, or food preparation surfaces.
If you suspect your pet has been exposed to boric acid, rinse any visible residue from skin, eyes, or fur with water and contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Is Boric Acid Toxic to Dogs?
Low to moderate toxicity; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and possible kidney damage with large amounts.
Is Boric Acid Toxic to Cats?
Cats are often more sensitive than dogs; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and kidney injury.
Active Ingredients
- boric acid
- borax
- disodium octaborate tetrahydrate
Pest Targeted
- ants, cockroaches, silverfish, termites, fleas
Formulation
powder, dust, gel bait, liquid solution, tablet
Signal Word
caution
Application Area
indoor cracks, crevices, baseboards, kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor perimeters
EPA Registration Number
EPA Reg. No. varies by product
Symptoms to Watch For
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
- increased thirst
- increased urination
- drooling
- abdominal pain
- tremors
- seizures
- kidney damage
What If My Pet Was Exposed to Boric Acid?
If your pet has boric acid on their skin or fur, rinse thoroughly with water. If any amount was ingested, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison helpline immediately. Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a professional.
Sources
Vet's Note
PetPilot provides general information for educational purposes. While we reference authoritative veterinary organizations, this page has not been individually reviewed by a veterinarian for your specific pet. Individual animals may react differently based on age, weight, breed, health conditions, and amount consumed. Always consult your veterinarian or a poison control center for personalized advice, especially if your pet is ill, injured, pregnant, nursing, or on medication.