Pothos (also called Devil’s Ivy) is one of the most popular indoor plants. It’s loved for its heart-shaped leaves, fast growth, and low maintenance. But if you’re a cat owner, you may be asking an important question:
Are pothos toxic to cats?
The short answer is yes, pothos is toxic to cats. Let’s explore why, what symptoms to watch for, and how you can keep your furry friend safe.
Why Are Pothos Toxic to Cats?
Pothos plants contain insoluble calcium oxalates. These are tiny, sharp crystals stored inside the plant’s leaves and stems.
When a cat chews on pothos, these crystals are released. They irritate the cat’s mouth, tongue, and throat, causing pain and swelling. Even a small nibble can lead to discomfort.
While pothos poisoning is usually not fatal, it can make your cat very sick if not treated quickly.
Symptoms of Pothos Poisoning in Cats
If your cat has chewed or bitten a pothos leaf, you may notice some of these signs:
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Excessive drooling
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Pawing at the mouth or face
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Oral irritation (swelling of tongue, lips, or throat)
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Vomiting
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Trouble swallowing or decreased appetite
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In severe cases: difficulty breathing (if swelling spreads)
If you see any of these symptoms, take it seriously. Even if your cat looks “fine,” the irritation can worsen.
What to Do If Your Cat Eats Pothos
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Remove any plant pieces from the cat’s mouth.
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Rinse the mouth gently with fresh water to wash away crystals.
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Call your vet immediately.
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If your vet is not available, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control or a local poison helpline.
Do not attempt to induce vomiting in your cat at home without consulting a professional. This could cause more irritation.
How Toxic Is Pothos Compared to Other Plants?
Pothos is considered mildly to moderately toxic to cats. Most cases cause pain and vomiting but are not life-threatening with quick treatment.
However, keep in mind:
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Lilies can cause kidney failure and are deadly to cats.
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Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane) has similar oxalates but can cause stronger reactions.
While pothos is not the most hazardous plant, it is still considered risky and should be kept out of reach.
How to Keep Cats Safe Around Pothos
If you love pothos and cats, here are some safety tips:
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Place pothos in hanging baskets or on high shelves your cat can’t reach.
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Use pet-safe deterrent sprays on leaves.
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Provide cat-friendly alternatives, such as cat grass or catnip, so they can chew on safe plants instead.
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Train your cat to stay away from houseplants using positive reinforcement.
Cat-Safe Alternatives to Pothos
Want greenery at home without worrying? Try these cat-friendly plants instead:
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Cat grass (oat, wheat, or barley grass)
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Spider plant (non-toxic and fun for cats)
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Areca palm (beautiful and safe)
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Calathea (colorful, pet-safe foliage)
These options let you enjoy plants while keeping your cat safe.
FAQs About Pothos and Cats
Q1: Is golden pothos toxic to cats?
Yes. All pothos varieties (golden, marble queen, neon, etc.) contain calcium oxalates and are toxic.
Q2: What happens if my cat chews a pothos leaf?
They may drool, vomit, or paw at their mouth. Call your vet right away.
Q3: Can pothos kill a cat?
It’s rare. Most cases are mild to moderate. But if a cat eats a large amount or isn’t treated, it can cause serious problems.
Q4: Are pothos toxic to dogs, too?
Yes. Pothos is also toxic to dogs and should be kept away from them.
Q5: How long do symptoms last?
With quick vet care, symptoms often improve within 24–48 hours.
Conclusion
So, are pothos toxic to cats?
Yes, they are. Pothos contains calcium oxalates that irritate a cat’s mouth and stomach. While not usually fatal, they can cause pain, drooling, and vomiting.
If your cat eats pothos, call your vet right away. The best way to protect your pet is to keep pothos out of reach or choose safe alternatives like spider plants or cat grass.
Your cat’s safety always comes first — and luckily, there are plenty of pet-friendly plants to enjoy at home.
