Introduction

Pothos plant is a popular indoor plant that is native to Southeast Asia. It is a member of the Araceae family and is also known as devil's ivy or golden pothos. Due to its easy care and lush foliage, it has become a favorite among houseplant lovers. However, before bringing a pothos plant into your home, it is essential to determine whether it is toxic to your pets, especially cats.

What Makes Pothos Plant Toxic to Cats?

Pothos plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to cats. These crystals can cause a range of symptoms, from irritation in the mouth and throat to complete blockage of the airway, depending on the amount ingested. Furthermore, the sap of the pothos plant can cause skin irritation and rash in both humans and pets. Therefore, it is essential to keep pothos plants out of reach of your furry friends.

Symptoms of Pothos Plant Toxicity in Cats

If you suspect that your cat has ingested pothos plant, you should look out for the following symptoms:

Vomiting

Diarrhea

Increased salivation

Lack of appetite

Difficulty breathing

Swollen mouth and tongue

Redness and irritation around the mouth

What to Do if Your Cat Ingests Pothos Plant

If you notice any of the above symptoms in your cat after it has ingested pothos plant, you should seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian may induce vomiting to expel any remaining plant material from the stomach or administer activated charcoal to absorb the toxins. In severe cases, your cat may require hospitalization and supportive care, such as intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and close monitoring. Therefore, prevention is the best course of action when it comes to pothos plant and cats.

Prevention of Pothos Plant Toxicity in Cats

The best way to prevent pothos plant toxicity in cats is to keep your plants out of reach. You can place them on high shelves or countertops that your cat cannot access, or use a plant hanger to suspend the plant from the ceiling. Additionally, you can train your cat to avoid the plants by using negative reinforcement techniques, such as a harmless spray of water or a loud noise whenever it approaches the plants. Furthermore, if you notice any symptoms of pothos plant toxicity in your cat, do not wait for them to worsen. Seek veterinary care immediately to prevent any further harm to your pet.

Conclusion

In summary, pothos plant is toxic to cats due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals in the leaves and stems. These crystals can cause a range of symptoms, from mild irritation to life-threatening airway obstruction. Therefore, it is essential to keep pothos plants out of reach of your pets and seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect an ingestion. Prevention is the best course of action when it comes to pothos plant and cats, and training your cat to avoid the plants can also be helpful in keeping them safe.