Is a Pothos Plant Poisonous? Safety Guide for Pets & Kids

By David Wilson · March 21, 2025

Yes, a pothos plant is poisonous to humans and pets due to insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Ingestion can cause oral irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing in both cats and dogs, and mild toxicity in people.

Understanding Pothos Plant Toxicity

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as devil's ivy, is a popular houseplant prized for its hardiness and air-purifying qualities. However, it contains toxic compounds that pose health risks if ingested.

Why Is Pothos Poisonous?

The primary toxin in pothos plants is calcium oxalate, which exists as microscopic needle-shaped crystals called raphides. When the plant is chewed or bitten, these crystals are released and can penetrate soft tissues in the mouth, throat, and digestive tract, causing immediate pain and inflammation.

Found in all parts of the plant: leaves, stems, and roots
Triggers rapid physical irritation rather than systemic poisoning
Toxicity level: Mild to moderate depending on amount ingested

Symptoms of Pothos Poisoning in Humans

While serious poisoning is rare in adults, accidental ingestion—especially by children—can lead to uncomfortable symptoms:

Mouth and tongue irritation or swelling
Burning sensation in lips, throat, or esophagus
Excessive drooling
Nausea or vomiting
Difficulty swallowing

Most symptoms are localized and resolve within a few hours with basic care like rinsing the mouth and drinking fluids.

Risks to Cats and Dogs

Pets are more vulnerable due to their smaller size and tendency to chew on plants. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) lists pothos as toxic to both cats and dogs.

Common Signs of Ingestion in Pets

Pawing at the mouth
Drooling
Vomiting
Loss of appetite
Depression or lethargy

If you suspect your pet has chewed on a pothos plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Treatment typically involves rinsing the mouth, administering antihistamines or anti-inflammatories, and supportive care.

Species	Symptom Onset	Common Symptoms	Treatment Required	Severity Level
Cats	5–30 minutes	Drooling, vomiting, oral pain	87% received veterinary care	Moderate
Dogs	10–45 minutes	Oral irritation, nausea, pawing	76% required medical support	Moderate
Humans (Children)	Immediate–15 min	Mouth burning, drooling, nausea	Rarely hospitalized (5%)	Mild
Humans (Adults)	Immediate	Oral discomfort, transient pain	Minimal care needed	Very Mild

Table data source:1, 2

The data shows that pets experience faster symptom onset and require veterinary intervention more frequently than humans. While human cases are generally mild, children are at higher risk due to exploratory behavior. Immediate response reduces complications across all groups.

Safe Handling and Prevention Tips

You don’t need to remove pothos from your home—just take precautions:

Place plants out of reach of children and pets (e.g., hanging baskets or high shelves)
Use bitter-tasting deterrent sprays on leaves
Wear gloves when pruning to avoid skin irritation
Wash hands thoroughly after handling
Label toxic plants clearly for caregivers

Non-Toxic Alternatives to Pothos

If you're concerned about safety, consider these non-toxic, low-maintenance alternatives:

Peperomia spp. – Safe for pets, compact growth
Phalaenopsis orchids – Non-toxic, elegant blooms
Haworthia fasciata – Pet-safe succulent
Calathea makoyana – Harmless to animals, attractive foliage

Frequently Asked Questions About Pothos Plant Toxicity

Is a pothos plant poisonous to cats?

Yes, pothos is poisonous to cats. Chewing on the leaves can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It’s important to keep pothos out of reach or choose cat-safe alternatives like Haworthia or Calathea.

Can dogs get sick from eating pothos?

Yes, dogs can become ill after ingesting pothos. Symptoms include drooling, vomiting, and pawing at the mouth. Most cases are not life-threatening but require prompt veterinary attention to manage discomfort and prevent dehydration.

Is pothos toxic to humans?

Pothos is mildly toxic to humans. Contact or ingestion causes temporary mouth irritation, burning, and nausea, especially in children. Skin contact may cause mild dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Washing affected areas usually resolves symptoms.

What should I do if my child eats a pothos leaf?

Rinse their mouth with water, offer milk or yogurt to soothe irritation, and monitor for persistent vomiting or swelling. Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) or seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.

Are there any non-toxic plants similar to pothos?

Yes, several non-toxic plants resemble pothos, including Peperomia, certain ferns like Boston fern, and some Calathea species. These are safe options for homes with curious pets or young children while still offering lush greenery.