Yes, pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as devil’s ivy, golden pothos, or Devil’s vine, is toxic to cats. This popular houseplant contains calcium oxalate crystals and saponins, compounds that can cause irritation and other health issues when ingested by cats.

Symptoms of Pothos Poisoning in Cats

If your cat chews on or ingests any part of a pothos plant, they may experience the following symptoms:

• Oral irritation: Pain, swelling, and discomfort in the mouth, tongue, or throat.
• Drooling: Excessive salivation due to the irritation.
• Vomiting: The cat may vomit as a result of ingesting the plant.
• Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal upset can occur as a result of ingestion.
• Difficulty swallowing: The cat may have trouble swallowing due to irritation in the throat or mouth.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats Pothos

If your cat eats pothos, it’s important to act quickly. Here's what you should do:

1. Remove any remaining plant material: If possible, remove the plant from the area to prevent further consumption.
2. Monitor your cat: Watch for symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. Most cats will experience mild discomfort, but it’s still important to keep an eye on them.
3. Contact your veterinarian: If your cat exhibits severe symptoms (such as persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or lethargy), or if you’re unsure of the amount ingested, contact your vet immediately. They may recommend bringing your cat in for treatment, which could include supportive care, fluids, or medication to help with symptoms.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe from Pothos

To avoid accidental ingestion of pothos, consider the following precautions:

• Place pothos out of reach: Cats are naturally curious, so it’s important to keep toxic plants like pothos on high shelves or in areas that are inaccessible to your cat. Hanging planters or plant stands can also help keep your plants safe.
• Use deterrents: If your cat is particularly attracted to plants, you can use pet-safe deterrents such as sprays that taste unpleasant to cats but are safe for both the plant and your pet.
• Provide safe plant alternatives: If your cat enjoys chewing on plants, you may want to offer cat grass or catnip as safer options. These plants are non-toxic and can provide an enjoyable chewing experience for your cat.

Conclusion

While pothos is a beautiful and low-maintenance plant, it is toxic to cats. The compounds in the plant can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and other symptoms if ingested. It’s essential to keep pothos plants out of reach of your cats and to be vigilant if they show any signs of plant ingestion. If you suspect your cat has eaten pothos, monitor their symptoms and contact your veterinarian for advice if necessary.

For cat owners who love plants, choosing non-toxic plants like Spider plants, Boston ferns, or Areca palms can be a safer option while still brightening up your home.