Sodium Chloride, magnesium Chloride, Potassium chloride, Calsium salts and, occasionally, urea are the comman constituents of comemercial ice melt mixtures and can cause an imbalance of the regulartory mineral ions in the blood when ingested. Most pets become exposed when they groom the compounds off there feet and fur (ice-melt compounds are dermal irritants). Salivation and mild gastronitestial signs often ensure. If a pet has ingested sufficent quantities or has preexisting renal or cardiac compromise, signs can progress to include the nevous system, polydipsia, pulmonary edema, cardiac abnormalites and death. Treatment depends on the type of icemelt ingested but typically involves supportive care in fluid tharpy. Keeping these compounds in well-sealed containers and not allowing pets into areas when they are used can reduce problems. If pets must walk over ice-melt compounds, wiping their feet with a damp towl, bathing them soon after they have walked or rolled in areas with ice melt, or putting booties on their feet can help prevent problems.