Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is a naturally occurring substance made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms called diatoms. It’s become a popular natural remedy for various pet-related issues, from pest control to digestive support. However, with its increasing use, a common question arises among pet owners: Is Diatomaceous Earth Safe For Pets? This article delves into the science behind diatomaceous earth, examining its potential benefits and risks to help you make informed decisions about its use around your furry companions.
Understanding Diatomaceous Earth and its Safety Profile
Generally, diatomaceous earth is considered safe for pets, but it’s crucial to understand the nuances to ensure responsible usage. The primary concern with diatomaceous earth revolves around potential irritation, particularly to the skin and lungs, if pets experience prolonged or excessive exposure. Imagine dusting your entire house with DE and neglecting to clean it up, or leaving a thick layer in your pet’s bed for an extended period – these scenarios represent the kind of prolonged exposure that could lead to issues.
However, it’s important to distinguish between the types of diatomaceous earth and the nature of exposure.
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth: Safe for Ingestion
One of the most reassuring aspects of diatomaceous earth is its safety when ingested. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of consuming DE, and the findings are generally positive.
A study published in Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology in 1964 examined the impact of food-grade diatomaceous earth on rats over a 90-day period. The research, titled “The effect of ingestion of diatomaceous earth in white rats: A subacute toxicity test,” concluded that a diet containing 5% diatomaceous earth caused no mechanical or chemical damage to the tissues of the rats. Furthermore, the study found no significant increase in residual silica in vital organs like the liver, kidneys, and spleen. This research suggests that food-grade diatomaceous earth is safe for consumption and does not accumulate harmful levels of silica in the body.
Alt text: White rats undergoing a 90-day subacute toxicity test to assess the effects of diatomaceous earth ingestion, demonstrating the safety of food-grade DE consumption.
Inhalation Risks: Irritation but Generally Recoverable
While ingestion appears safe, the inhalation of diatomaceous earth dust presents a different picture. Diatomaceous earth, especially in its powdered form, can become airborne and potentially irritate the respiratory system. However, it’s crucial to understand the type of silica present in DE and the context of exposure.
Research distinguishes between two forms of silica: amorphous silica (AS) and crystalline silica (CS). Crystalline silica is a known carcinogen, while amorphous silica is considered significantly safer. Diatomaceous earth primarily consists of amorphous silica, but it can contain trace amounts of crystalline silica as a contaminant. Food-grade DE products are regulated to minimize crystalline silica content to safe levels.
A study published in Archives of Toxicology in 2002 explored the health hazards associated with inhaling amorphous silica. The study, titled “Health hazards due to the inhalation of amorphous silica,” highlights that the main concern with amorphous silica is contamination with crystalline silica, particularly relevant in cases of pneumoconiosis among diatomaceous earth workers exposed to industrial-grade DE. However, the study also notes that intentionally manufactured synthetic amorphous silicas, free from crystalline silica contamination, showed different effects in animal studies.
Animal inhalation studies using synthetic amorphous silica revealed reversible inflammation, granuloma formation, and emphysema, but importantly, no progressive fibrosis of the lungs. This suggests that while inhaling amorphous silica can cause respiratory irritation and changes, these effects are often not permanent and the lungs can recover.
Alt text: Microscopic image of amorphous silica particles, the primary component of diatomaceous earth, highlighting its structure relevant to inhalation safety concerns.
Another inhalation study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology in 2007 investigated the five-day inhalation toxicity of synthetic amorphous silicas in rats. The research, titled “Five-day inhalation toxicity study of three types of synthetic amorphous silicas in Wistar rats and post-exposure evaluations for up to 3 months,” exposed rats to varying concentrations of synthetic amorphous silica. Even at high concentrations (25mg/m(3)), the study found that exposures were tolerated without serious clinical effects, changes in body weight, or food intake.
While exposure to higher concentrations did induce temporary lung changes and inflammation, these effects were transient and largely reversible during a 3-month recovery period. Notably, no adverse changes were observed at the lowest exposure level (1mg/m(3)). This study further supports the idea that while diatomaceous earth dust can cause temporary respiratory irritation, the effects are generally not severe or long-lasting, especially at low exposure levels.
Important Considerations for Pet Owners Using Diatomaceous Earth
Based on the scientific understanding of diatomaceous earth, here are crucial considerations for pet owners:
- Choose Food Grade DE: Always opt for food-grade diatomaceous earth for any pet-related uses. Food-grade DE is specifically processed and tested to ensure low crystalline silica content, minimizing potential health risks.
- Minimize Dust Exposure: When applying diatomaceous earth, take precautions to minimize dust. Apply it outdoors or in well-ventilated areas. Avoid creating clouds of dust that your pet (or you) could inhale. Consider using a duster or applicator to control the spread.
- Avoid Prolonged Confinement in Dusty Areas: Do not confine your pet to an enclosed space heavily treated with diatomaceous earth for extended periods. Ensure they have access to fresh air and areas free from DE dust.
- Caution for Pets with Respiratory Issues: If your pet has pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis, exercise extra caution when using diatomaceous earth. Consult with your veterinarian before using DE and take meticulous steps to minimize dust exposure.
- Surface Application vs. Direct Inhalation: Remember that diatomaceous earth is most effective when applied to surfaces where pests travel. Direct inhalation is not the intended use and poses the primary risk of irritation.
Addressing Conflicting Information
It’s worth noting that the National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) states that a study found an increase in lung cancers in mice forced to breathe diatomaceous earth for an hour daily for a year. However, the NPIC does not provide a citation for this specific study within their references, making it difficult to verify the context and methodology of this research. It’s important to critically evaluate such claims and prioritize information supported by peer-reviewed scientific studies readily available and cited, such as those discussed above.
Conclusion: Responsible Use is Key
In conclusion, diatomaceous earth, particularly food-grade varieties, appears to be generally safe for pets when used responsibly. Ingestion of food-grade DE is considered safe, and while inhalation of dust can cause temporary respiratory irritation, the effects are usually reversible. The key to safe usage lies in minimizing dust exposure, choosing food-grade DE, and exercising caution, especially for pets with respiratory sensitivities.
By understanding the science and taking appropriate precautions, you can utilize the potential benefits of diatomaceous earth for your pets while minimizing any potential risks. If you have any specific concerns about using diatomaceous earth for your pet, always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice.
References:
- Bertke, E. M. (1964). The effect of ingestion of diatomaceous earth in white rats: A subacute toxicity test. Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology, 6(3), 284–291. Science Direct Abstract
- Merget, R., Bauer, T., Küpper, H. U., Philippou, S., Bauer, H. D., Breitstadt, R., & Bruening, T. (2002). Health hazards due to the inhalation of amorphous silica. Archives of Toxicology, 75(11-12), 625-34. NIH Abstract
- Arts, J. H., Muijser, H., Duistermaat, E., Junker, K., & Kuper, C. F. (2007). Five-day inhalation toxicity study of three types of synthetic amorphous silicas in Wistar rats and post-exposure evaluations for up to 3 months. Food and Chemical Toxicology, 45(10), 1856-67. NIH Abstract
- National Pesticide Information Center. Diatomaceous Earth General Fact Sheet. NPIC Website
