Pothos
Epipremnum aureum
Toxicity: ā ļø MODERATE TOXICITY ā ORAL IRRITATION
Contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause immediate burning and irritation in the mouth, lips, and tongue. Cats often chew it out of curiosity due to trailing vinesābut even a small bite causes distress.
Also known as:
- Devilās Ivy
- Golden Pothos
- Money Plant
- Silver Vine
Symptoms of poisoning:
- Drooling
- Oral swelling
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Pawing at face
What to do:
Not usually life-threateningābut very painful. Act quickly.
- Remove plant fragments from your catās mouth.
- Rinse gently with cool water.
- Offer a lick of plain yogurt or a few drops of milk to neutralize crystals.
- Call your vet if symptoms last more than 2ā3 hours.
š” Pro tip: Hang Pothos out of reachāor replace with a safe vine like String of Hearts (non-toxic!).
Safe alternatives:
- String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
- Burroās Tail (Sedum morganianum)
- Peperomia rotundifolia (Trailing Jade)
- Hoya carnosa (Wax Plant) ā non-toxic and beautiful!
Sources:
- ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants Database
- PetMD: Pothos Toxicity in Cats
- Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care
ā ļø Disclaimer: PawSafePlants provides general educational information only. This content is not veterinary advice. If your cat has been exposed to any plant, contact a licensed veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of this information. Use at your own risk.
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