Is Ice Melt Toxic to Pets?
Yes — ice melt is mildly toxic to cats. Yes — ice melt is mildly toxic to dogs.
PawSafe Check is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Always contact your veterinarian or a poison control service if you think your pet has been exposed.
- Toxic compound
- Salts
- Toxic parts
- Pellets on sidewalks and paws
- Also known as
- rock salt, de-icer
Symptoms
Cats (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
Dogs (mildly toxic)
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Drooling
- Reduced appetite
What to do
If your cat ate ice melt
- Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your cat is small, young or elderly.
If your dog ate ice melt
- Remove any plant material from your dog's mouth and keep it out of reach.
- Gently rinse the mouth and offer fresh water.
- Call your vet if symptoms persist, get worse, or your dog is small, young or elderly.
Good to know
Licking ice melt off paws causes drooling and vomiting; eating large amounts can raise blood sodium.
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Frequently asked questions
Is ice melt toxic to cats?
Yes — ice melt is mildly toxic to cats. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Is ice melt toxic to dogs?
Yes — ice melt is mildly toxic to dogs. Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling.
Which parts of ice melt are toxic?
Pellets on sidewalks and paws.
What makes ice melt toxic?
Salts.
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