If you love your furry feline as much as you love filling your space with plants, you’ve probably heard of pothos (Epipremnum aureum). These indoor favorites are famous for their lush, heart-shaped leaves and elegant trailing vines that can make any room look Pinterest-worthy. But if you’ve got a curious kitty at home, you might be asking yourself: Are pothos toxic to cats?
Don’t worry—this guide has all the answers! We’ll break down whether pothos plants are safe for your feline friends and share tips to help you keep your pets and greenery thriving together. Let’s dive in!
About Pothos
Pothos plants have earned their spot as one of the most popular houseplants, and it’s easy to see why! They’re super low-maintenance, grow like crazy, and can thrive just about anywhere—even in low light. No green thumb? No problem! That’s why pothos is nicknamed “devil’s ivy”—it’s practically unkillable, even for beginners.
With their heart-shaped leaves that come in shades of green, white, yellow, or pale green patterns, pothos plants are not just pretty but also known for their air-purifying powers. It’s no surprise they’ve become a go-to plant for so many homes.
But before you fall head over heels for this plant, there’s a catch: pothos isn’t as harmless as it looks, especially if you have a curious cat roaming around.
Are Pothos Toxic to Cats?
Yes, pothos plants are toxic to cats. Their eye-catching, leafy vines might be irresistible to a curious kitty, but chewing on them can lead to trouble. Pothos contains calcium oxalate crystals—tiny, needle-like particles that can seriously irritate a cat’s mouth and throat if ingested.
When your cat takes a nibble, these crystals get released, causing unpleasant symptoms. Even a small bite can make your furry friend uncomfortable, with the severity depending on how much they’ve eaten. It’s definitely a plant to keep out of paw’s reach!
What Happens if My Cat Eats a Pothos Plant?
If your cat decides to sample your pothos plant, it’s important to stay alert. Symptoms of pothos toxicity can show up fast—sometimes within minutes, but occasionally a few hours later. Keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
- Drooling: One of the first red flags is excessive drooling. The irritation from the crystals makes your cat’s mouth produce more saliva than usual.
- Pawing at the Mouth: If your cat is pawing or rubbing at their mouth, it’s likely their way of trying to ease the discomfort caused by the plant.
- Vomiting: Your cat might vomit as their body tries to get rid of the toxic plant material. This might not happen right away, but it’s a common symptom to watch for.
- Difficulty Swallowing: Swelling and irritation in the mouth or throat can make swallowing harder for your cat, which may lead to unusual eating or drinking behaviors.
- Oral Irritation: An irritated or inflamed mouth can cause your cat to act differently, like meowing more often or persistently pawing at their face.
What Should I Do if My Cat Takes a Bite of My Pothos Plant?
If you think your cat has taken a bite of your pothos plant, stay calm—it’s important not to panic. Here’s what to do next:
- Rinse the Mouth: If your cat cooperates, gently rinse their mouth with water to clear out any leftover plant bits. This can help reduce irritation from the calcium oxalate crystals.
- Remove the Plant: Take the pothos plant out of reach immediately to prevent your cat from eating more of it.
- Monitor for Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your cat for signs like drooling, vomiting, or trouble swallowing over the next few hours. Be ready to act if symptoms appear.
- Call the Vet: If your cat’s symptoms seem severe or you’re unsure how serious the situation is, contact your veterinarian right away. They may suggest a visit for treatments like anti-inflammatory meds or fluids to keep your cat hydrated.
How to Prevent My Cat from Eating My Pothos Plant?
Cats have a knack for getting into plants, but you can keep them away from your pothos and other risky greenery. Try these tips to keep your curious kitty safe:
- Place the Pothos Out of Reach: Keep your pothos well out of your cat’s reach by hanging it in a basket, putting it on a tall shelf, or using a plant stand that’s too high for your feline climber.
- Use Deterrents: Try sprays with a bitter taste to deter your cat from nibbling on plants. Make sure the spray is safe for your pothos and follow the instructions carefully.
- Offer your cat a safe plant to chew on: Give your cat a safer option like cat grass, which is easy to find at pet stores. It’s a great way to satisfy their plant-chewing cravings safely.
- Create a Cat-Free Zone: If possible, keep your pothos in an area your cat isn’t allowed to enter. This keeps both your plants and your furry friend safe while giving your cat their own space to roam.
Are There Safe Alternatives to Pothos for Homes with Cats?
If you’re looking to add some greenery to your home without putting your cat at risk, there are many pet-friendly plants to choose from. Some non-toxic alternatives to pothos include:
Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): Known for its beautiful, patterned leaves that fold up at night like “praying hands,” the prayer plant is a safe and stunning addition to any home. It’s non-toxic to cats and easy to care for.
Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata): This unique plant has long, curly leaves and a thick trunk that stores water, making it perfect for busy cat owners. It’s not just a cool-looking plant but also completely safe for your cat.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): A popular and resilient houseplant, the spider plant is known for its long, arching leaves and air-purifying qualities. It’s also non-toxic to cats, so you can let your kitty explore without worry.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): With its lush, feathery fronds, the Boston fern brings a touch of greenery to any room. This plant is completely safe for cats, making it a great choice for pet-friendly homes.
These plants are not only safe for cats, but they can also brighten up your home without the worry of toxicity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How toxic are pothos to cats?
Pothos plants are toxic to cats because they contain calcium oxalate crystals. If your cat eats any part of the plant, it can cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting. While it’s not usually life-threatening, it can make your cat feel very uncomfortable.
How can I tell if my cat has eaten a pothos plant?
If your cat has eaten pothos, look for signs like drooling, pawing at their mouth, or vomiting. They may also have trouble swallowing or seem irritated around their mouth. If you notice these symptoms, it’s a good idea to contact your vet.
Are there safe alternatives to pothos for homes with cats?
Some safe alternatives include spider plants, Boston ferns, and parlor palms. These plants are non-toxic to cats, so you can enjoy greenery without worrying about your pet’s health.
