Are Pothos Toxic to Cats? (Preventive Measures to Take)
Last Updated on November 27, 2023
I get a lot of questions regarding pets eating Pothos. The most common query is whether Pothos is toxic to cats and what should be done if they eat it.
Yes, Pothos plants are poisonous to cats and can cause serious health problems if ingested. Symptoms of Pothos poisoning in cats include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, and difficulty breathing. If you suspect your cat has eaten a pothole plant, contact your veterinarian or local animal emergency clinic immediately.
The biggest concern with Pothos plants is the saponin content. Saponins are glycosides that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea if ingested. If your cat ingests a large amount of saponin, they may experience gastrointestinal upset and need to see a veterinarian.
Symptoms of Pothos Poisoning in Cats
If you think your cat has pothos poisoning, watch for the following symptoms: vomiting, drooling, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, and lethargy. If your cat displays any of these symptoms, take them to the vet immediately. Pothos is a common houseplant that can be poisonous to cats if ingested.
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth and throat, leading to vomiting and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, pothos poisoning can lead to dehydration and even death.
How Long Does Pothos Poisoning Last in Cats
Unfortunately, there is no one answer to this question as it depends on a number of factors. Pothos poisoning in cats can cause immediate symptoms such as drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, pain, decreased appetite, and skin irritation.
The duration of the poisoning can vary depending on the severity of the cat’s reaction and the treatment provided. Most cats make a full recovery from pothos poisoning with appropriate veterinary care.
It is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible if you suspect your cat has ingested pothos.
With prompt treatment, most cats make a full recovery from calcium oxalate poisoning.
Recommendations for Keeping Cats Safe from Pothos Plants
Get Informed
Take some time to learn about pothos—its appearance, common varieties, and the toxic compounds it contains. This knowledge will help you identify potential threats in your living spaces.
Choose Cat-Friendly Alternatives
If you’re a plant enthusiast, consider swapping out pothos for pet-friendly houseplants. There are plenty of safe options like spider plants that can coexist with your cat without posing a risk.
Placing Plants Strategically
Use shelves, hanging planters, or high furniture to keep pothos out of your cat’s reach. Cats love to climb, so placing plants in elevated positions reduces the chance of accidental ingestion.
Cat-Friendly Spaces
Create vertical spaces for your cat to explore, like cat trees or wall-mounted perches. This not only satisfies their climbing instincts but also keeps them away from potted plants.
Keeping an Eye on Your Cat
Regular Supervision: Keep an eye on your cat, especially when introducing new plants or rearranging your living space. Cats are naturally curious, and close supervision can prevent them from investigating potentially harmful items.
Spray
If you’re finding that your cat is attracted to your pothos plant and keeps eating it, there are a few things you can do to deter them.
First, you’ll want to make sure the plant is out of reach – either by putting it on a high shelf or in a room that your cat doesn’t have access to.
You can also try spraying the plant with a deterrent like lemon juice or bitter apple spray.
Conclusion
Pothos plants are toxic to cats due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingesting or chewing on pothos leaves can lead to oral irritation and other symptoms of poisoning in cats.
It is crucial for cat owners to be aware of the potential dangers and take preventive measures to keep their feline companions safe. If you suspect that your cat has been exposed to pothos or any other toxic plant, seek immediate veterinary care for proper diagnosis and treatment.
By prioritizing the safety and well-being of our cats, we can ensure a happy and healthy environment for them to thrive in.
Also Read About: Is Satin Pothos Toxic for Cats
FAQs
My Cat Ate Pothos But Seems Fine, What to Do?
If your cat ate pothos, don’t worry – they’re not poisonous to cats. Pothos are actually a pretty common houseplant, and many people have them around the house without realizing that they’re potentially harmful to pets.
While Pothos won’t kill your cat, it can cause some gastrointestinal upset, so keep an eye on them for the next few days and make sure they’re drinking plenty of water.
If you notice any vomiting or diarrhoea, contact your veterinarian right away.
Can Cats Develop Allergies to Pothos Plant?
Yes, cats can develop allergies to pothos plants. Pothos plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause allergic reactions in cats when they come into contact with the plant or ingest it.
These allergic reactions can manifest as skin irritation, itching, redness, swelling, and even respiratory symptoms such as sneezing or difficulty breathing.
