🌿 Pothos (Devil's Ivy)
Verdict
Toxic — calcium oxalate crystals cause oral and GI irritation.
If your cat ate this
Cats hide symptoms — don't wait and see. Even small amounts of certain substances can be fatal to a cat. Act fast.
- 1. Call your veterinarian immediately
- 2. ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
- 3. Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661 (consultation fee applies)
A consultation fee may apply for poison control hotlines.
Verdict
Pothos contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that penetrate oral tissues on contact, causing intense pain, swelling, and drooling. This is a very common houseplant. While rarely fatal, the oral pain and swelling can be severe. Cats may chew on trailing vines.
Symptoms to watch for
- • intense oral pain
- • excessive drooling
- • swelling of mouth and tongue
- • vomiting
- • difficulty swallowing
What to do
Rinse your cat's mouth with water. Offer cold treats (ice cubes, wet food) to soothe irritation. Contact your vet if swelling is severe or breathing is affected. Move pothos plants out of reach.
📞 US ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435
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