are pothos dangerous to cats

Pothos plants, also known as devil’s ivy or Philodendron scandens, are toxic to both cats and dogs if ingested. Pothos plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, as well as difficulty swallowing and vomiting if ingested by pets.

Pothos Are Toxic to Cats

All types of pothos are toxic to cats if consumed, according to the ASPCA. This is because the crystals of calcium oxalate found in these tropical plants irritate skin when they come into contact with them. Intense burning of the lips, tongue, and mouth, excessive drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing are symptoms of pothos toxicity. Cats are very good at hiding their pain, so some of these symptoms might be difficult to identify at first. However, you should contact your local veterinarian straight away to have your cat checked out if you notice any changes in behavior and suspect that it may have eaten part of a pothos plant.

Why Are Pothos Plants Toxic To Cats?

All cat parents know that their furry friends are insatiably curious and will usually find a way to investigate whatever strikes their fancy. If there are pothos cats must investigate! Keeping your surroundings safe for your kitty is similar to baby-proofing your home for a toddler. But cats are expert climbers, so thwarting their dangerous desires can be even more challenging.

Felines are natural meat eaters, but they seek out greens to settle their stomachs or supplement any nutrients missing from their regular diet. It is common for cats to snack on any houseplants within their reach, especially trailing ones like pothos plants.

If your cat bites, chews on, or consumes the pothos plant, it could result in pothos poisoning. This is because calcium oxalate crystals, which penetrate the soft tissues of your cat’s mouth, throat, and stomach, are present throughout the entire plant and instantly cause a burning sensation.

Calcium oxalate crystals can cause your pet significant discomfort and anxiety, even though they are usually not fatal.

Symptoms Of Pothos Plant Poisoning In Cats

Symptoms of pothos poisoning usually appear immediately after the animal gnaws on or ingests the plant, even though most cats are skilled at hiding pain. Some of the symptoms you may observe include:

Pawing At The Mouth
Mouth Irritation
Vomiting
Loss Of Appetite
Abnormal Drooling
Difficulty Swallowing

FAQ

Can I have a pothos with a cat?

Conclusion. Since pothos plants are toxic to cats, it is best to avoid them in a household with feline family members if possible. If pothos and cats must coexist, responsible pet owners should keep the plants out of kitty’s reach and know the symptoms of pothos plant poisoning.

How do I keep cats away from pothos?

Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the leaves of houseplants and your cat will back away pretty quickly. Cats also hate the smell of citrus. Put orange and lemon peels in your pots along with the plants to help deter them. Another option is spraying the leaves directly with diluted lemon juice or orange oil.

Are pothos pet friendly?

Pothos/Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum) Also known as Satin or Silk Pothos, the plant is toxic to both dogs and cats as it can irritate the mouth and tongue. In addition, your pet may also suffer from vomiting, increased salivation and swallowing difficulties.

What if my cat eats a dead pothos leaf?

Signs of pothos poisoning usually appear pretty quickly. These may include drooling, vomiting, and pawing at the mouth. Fluffy may also withdraw and hide, and she may not be interested in her dinner. Contact your vet immediately if you notice any of these things.