Pothos are popular houseplants due to their ease of care and attractive appearance, but many pet owners are unaware that they can be toxic to both cats and dogs.

Are Pothos Toxic to Pets?

Toxicity to Cats

Pothos contains a toxin called calcium oxalate, which can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and stomach if ingested. Symptoms of pothos poisoning in cats can include:

1. Drooling

2. Vomiting

3. Diarrhea

4. Difficulty swallowing

5. Swelling of the mouth and throat

6. Lethargy

7. Tremors

8. Seizures

Toxicity to Dogs

Pothos is also toxic to dogs, but the symptoms are typically less severe than in cats. Dogs who ingest pothos may experience:

1. Vomiting

2. Diarrhea

3. Abdominal pain

4. Drooling

5. Lethargy

Treatment for Pothos Poisoning

If you suspect that your pet has ingested pothos, it is important to contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatment will depend on the severity of the poisoning and may include:

1. Inducing vomiting

2. Administering activated charcoal

3. Providing supportive care, such as fluids and electrolytes

Prevention

The best way to prevent pothos poisoning in pets is to keep the plants out of their reach. If you have pothos plants in your home, you can take the following steps to reduce the risk of your pet ingesting them:

1. Place the plants on high shelves or in hanging baskets.

2. Use pet-proof gates or barriers to block access to the plants.

3. Trim the leaves of the plants regularly to make them less appealing to pets.

4. If you think your pet has ingested a pothos plant, contact your veterinarian immediately.