Winter in Cloquet, MN brings fluffy snow, frosty mornings, and plenty of cozy moments with our pets. But along with the charm of the season comes a serious concern that catches many pet owners off guard. Each year, our veterinary team treats dogs and cats who have been exposed to winter toxins like ice melt and antifreeze. These are common products used around homes and driveways, but they can lead to serious illness or even death in pets.
Knowing what to watch for and how to prevent exposure can help you avoid a heartbreaking emergency.
Ice Melt Is More Dangerous Than It Looks
Many ice melts used in the Cloquet area contain harsh chemicals like sodium chloride, calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride. These ingredients are effective at melting snow and ice, but they are not safe for pets.
Dogs and cats are often exposed to ice melt when they walk on sidewalks or driveways treated with these products. The chemicals can stick to their paws and fur, causing irritation. Later, when your pet licks their paws, they may ingest those toxins.
Symptoms of ice melt exposure can include:
- Vomiting or drooling
- Red, irritated paw pads
- Weakness or lethargy
- Excessive thirst or urination
Even small amounts can be harmful, especially for small dogs or cats. Cats may also be exposed when they walk through garages or entryways where ice melt has been tracked in on shoes or boots.
How to Keep Your Pet Safe Around Ice Melt
There are simple steps you can take to reduce your pet’s risk:
- Wipe your pet’s paws with a warm, damp cloth after every walk
- Avoid walking in areas with heavy salt or deicer use
- Use a pet-safe ice melt at home that doesn’t contain harmful ingredients
We recommend checking the label of any product you use outdoors.
Antifreeze Poisoning Happens Fast
Antifreeze is another major concern during the winter. The most dangerous ingredient in traditional antifreeze is ethylene glycol, a compound that is sweet-tasting and highly toxic to pets. Unfortunately, pets are often drawn to its scent and flavor.
A small amount of antifreeze can be deadly. For a cat, even a teaspoon can cause kidney failure. For a medium-sized dog, just a few tablespoons can be life-threatening.
The symptoms can appear quickly, often within 30 minutes to 12 hours after ingestion. Early signs include:
- Staggering or wobbling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Seizures
- Sudden lethargy
If your pet shows any of these signs and may have been in a garage or near a vehicle, call our veterinary team immediately at (218) 879-9280. Waiting to “see what happens” can be a fatal mistake. Prompt care can save your pet’s life.
What to Do in a Pet Emergency
If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze or been exposed to harmful ice melt, here’s what you should do:
- Bring your pet indoors and away from the exposure source
- Rinse off paws or fur with warm water to stop further absorption
- Call our veterinary team right away for guidance or emergency care
- Do not try to treat your pet at home or wait for symptoms to worsen
Some toxins may take hours to show visible symptoms but are already causing internal damage. Always act quickly when you suspect exposure.
Safer Products Are Readily Available
Thankfully, you don’t have to sacrifice your pet’s safety to keep your property winter-ready. There are safer alternatives available for both antifreeze and ice melt.
- Use propylene glycol-based antifreeze, which is much less toxic if accidentally ingested
- Choose ice melt products labeled as pet-safe, especially those that avoid chlorides and other harsh chemicals
- Always store antifreeze and deicers out of reach, sealed tightly, and never leave spills unattended
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Our Veterinary Team Is Here When You Need Us
At Cloquet Animal Hospital, we see firsthand how quickly winter toxins can turn into emergencies. Ice melt and antifreeze might seem harmless when used as directed, but they pose a real threat to curious pets who explore their surroundings with their noses and tongues.
If you ever have concerns about something your pet may have come in contact with, we want you to feel comfortable reaching out. Our veterinary team is here to help, whether you need guidance, an emergency appointment, or advice on safer winter care options.
Keep our phone number handy this season: (218) 879-9280.
Make This Winter a Safe One for Your Pet
Snow and ice are part of life in Cloquet, but they don’t have to come with added risks. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the winter months with your dog or cat without worrying about a trip to the emergency room.
Use pet-safe products, be alert to symptoms, and reach out to our veterinary team at Cloquet Animal Hospital if you’re ever unsure about a possible exposure. We’re here to help you protect your furry family members every step of the way.
Call us at (218) 879-9280 if you have questions or need to schedule a visit. Your pet’s safety is always our priority.