Is Pothos Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
Yes, pothos is toxic to cats and dogs. According to the ASPCA, ingestion of any part of the plant can cause a painful reaction. Pothos is a very common houseplant, known by other names like Devil’s Ivy and Ivy Arum, so pet owners should be aware of the risks it poses.
The plant’s toxicity comes from a compound called insoluble calcium oxalates. When a pet chews on the leaves or stems, these crystals are released and cause immediate irritation and discomfort to the soft tissues of the mouth, tongue, and throat. The experience can be very distressing for an animal.
Pothos: what the ASPCA database lists
| ASPCA entry | Golden Pothos |
|---|---|
| Other common names | Pothos, Devil’s Ivy, Taro Vine, Ivy Arum |
| Scientific name | Epipremnum aureum |
| Family | Araceae |
| Toxic to | Toxic to Dogs, Toxic to Cats |
| Non-toxic to | None listed |
| Toxic principles | Insoluble calcium oxalates |
| Clinical signs listed | Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing. |
What the ASPCA lists for pothos
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists pothos, under the scientific name Epipremnum aureum, as toxic to both cats and dogs. The organization identifies the toxic principle as insoluble calcium oxalates.
The clinical signs in pets that have chewed or eaten the plant include:
- Oral irritation
- Intense burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
These symptoms are a direct physical reaction to the toxic principle. The discomfort can lead to a pet pawing at its mouth or refusing to eat or drink.
What this means in a home with pets
Having a pothos plant in a home with cats or dogs requires careful management. Because of their vining nature, pothos plants can have long stems that hang down from shelves or planters, making them tempting for curious pets to bat at, pull on, or chew. Both cats and dogs may be attracted to the dangling leaves.
Even a small bite can release enough calcium oxalate crystals to cause a painful reaction. The primary danger is the intense oral discomfort and irritation. While vomiting is listed as a clinical sign, the most immediate symptoms are related to the mouth. Difficulty swallowing can be particularly concerning. Pet owners should recognize that even playful nibbling on a pothos plant can lead to these adverse effects.
Keeping cats, dogs, and this plant apart
The safest way to have a pothos plant in a home with pets is to ensure the animals cannot access it. Place the plant in a room that is consistently kept off-limits to pets. Alternatively, use hanging planters that keep every part of the plant, including the longest vines, well out of a cat’s jumping range or a dog’s reach.
Avoid placing pothos on low tables, windowsills, or shelves that a cat can easily climb. Supervise pets closely, especially kittens and puppies who are often more likely to explore new things with their mouths. If you bring a new pothos into your home, monitor your pets’ interactions with it.
When to call your vet
If your pet chewed or ate part of this plant, call your veterinarian or an animal poison control line. Note which plant and which part, how much may be gone and when, and take a photo or a piece of the plant with you.
If you suspect your pet has chewed or ingested any part of a pothos plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately. Be prepared to share what part of the plant was eaten, how much, and when. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or provide any home remedies without professional veterinary guidance.
Emergency signs: go now
- Collapse, fainting or severe weakness
- Seizures, tremors or trouble standing
- Trouble breathing or blue, gray or very pale gums
- Repeated vomiting or retching, or a swollen, painful belly
- Any known contact with a substance listed as toxic, even before signs appear
Book an appointment soon
- Vomiting or diarrhea that lasts or keeps coming back
- Not eating or drinking, or drinking much more than usual
- Drooling, pawing at the mouth or a swollen face
- Lethargy, hiding or acting unlike themselves
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply). Your own vet or nearest emergency clinic is always a good first call.
Sources
Last checked October 21, 2026. Listings and guidance can change; your veterinarian knows your pet’s health history.