Can you eat cat litter?
Quick Answer
No
Eating cat litter is not safe for humans. It contains substances that can be harmful if ingested, such as silica dust and sodium bentonite. In addition, used cat litter may contain bacteria from cat waste, which can cause serious illness.
What Is It?
Cat litter is a type of absorbent material used in litter boxes for cats to urinate and defecate in. It is typically made from clay, but can also be made from other materials such as silica gel, recycled paper, or natural plant-based materials.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are several risks associated with ingesting cat litter:
- Ingesting silica dust can cause respiratory problems and damage to the digestive tract.
- Sodium bentonite, a common ingredient in clumping cat litter, can expand and cause blockages in the digestive system.
- Used cat litter may contain harmful bacteria from cat waste, which can cause serious illness.