Are Pothos Toxic to Cats?
Direct Answer
Yes, pothos are toxic to cats (and dogs). All parts of the plant contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate oral pain, swelling, drooling, and difficulty swallowing if chewed or ingested. While rarely fatal, pothos ingestion requires veterinary attention if symptoms are severe.
Symptoms of Pothos Ingestion
- •Excessive drooling
- •Pawing at the mouth
- •Oral swelling and redness
- •Difficulty swallowing
- •Vomiting
- •Decreased appetite
What to Do
Remove any plant material from your cat's mouth. Offer water or milk to help dilute the crystals. Contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435).
For a complete list of safe and unsafe plants for pet owners, see our Pet-Safe Houseplants Guide.
Safe Alternatives to Pothos
If you love trailing plants but have cats, consider spider plants, Boston ferns, or lipstick plants — all are non-toxic and have similar cascading growth habits.
Related Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
Pothos ingestion is rarely fatal to cats, but it causes significant pain and discomfort. The calcium oxalate crystals cause immediate oral burning, swelling, and drooling. In rare cases of large ingestion, it can cause difficulty breathing due to throat swelling. Seek veterinary care if symptoms are severe.
Yes, all pothos varieties (golden pothos, marble queen, neon, etc.) are toxic to cats. They all contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in their leaves and stems.
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