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Can baking soda help my cat with kidney disease? Is it safe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Longhair | Female | spayed | 17 years and 8 months old | 5 lbs

Is it safe to administer baking soda to my Kitty with stage 4 kidney disease, given recent positive study results? Please advise. Thanks!

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on September 12th, 2021

I've read many different studies and case reports, all with conflicting information regarding both the safety and efficacy of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) recommendations for cats with kidney disease. The tricky part with utilizing baking soda in this situation is that it can dramatically alter potassium levels which can be catastrophic, as well as causing an unintentional metabolic alkalosis. I would avoid giving baking soda to Kitty unless your vet specifically directs you to do so based on her current blood test results. Instead, I would discuss low protein prescription diets with your vet, as well as subcutaneous fluids on a regular basis, as these treatments are more likely to help slow the progression of kidney disease as much as possible. I hope that everything goes well!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    No, it's not safe to give to cats. I'm not sure what studies you are referencing but baking soda can be harmful to cats if ingested in large quantities. Also baking soda does not help with kidney failure. Please do not give it to Kitty. Best of luck.

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