Is Pothos Toxic to Cats?
Also known as: Golden Pothos, Devil’s Ivy, Epipremnum aureum · Epipremnum aureum
What makes it toxic
Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When plant tissue is chewed, the needle-like crystals pierce the soft tissue of the mouth, tongue and throat, causing immediate pain and swelling.
Warning signs to watch for
Intense burning of the lips, tongue and mouth, heavy drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, difficulty swallowing and, in severe cases, swelling that affects breathing.
What to do if your cat eats it
Rinse the mouth with water and remove any plant material. Offer milk or water to help flush the crystals. Call your vet if drooling and vomiting persist beyond an hour or if breathing looks labored.
Common questions
Can a cat die from eating pothos?
Deaths are rare. Pothos is painful but rarely life-threatening; the main danger is airway swelling in a severe reaction or dehydration from prolonged vomiting.
Is pothos safe to keep if my cat ignores it?
Risk remains. Cats chew plants unpredictably, so a curious cat plus pothos is a bad pairing. Place it completely out of reach or choose a cat-safe plant instead.
Are all pothos varieties toxic?
Yes. Golden pothos, marble queen, neon pothos and all other cultivars contain the same calcium oxalate crystals.
More plants checked for cats
This page is general educational information, not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Every pet is different — if your animal ate something concerning, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison hotline right away. Checking what your pet can eat? Visit our sister site SafeOrToxic.