Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a common indoor plant loved for its low maintenance and fast growth. While pothos is great for improving indoor air quality and adding greenery to homes, it is important to know that pothos is not safe for dogs.
Pothos plants contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. According to pet safety resources like the ASPCA, these crystals can cause irritation and stomach issues if a dog chews or eats the leaves or stems. Some dog owners assume houseplants are harmless, but pothos can be toxic to pets, including cats and dogs.
Symptoms If A Dog Eats Pothos
If a dog chews or ingests pothos, common symptoms may include:
- Drooling
- Swelling around the mouth or tongue
- Difficulty swallowing
- Vomiting
- Pawing at the mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Oral irritation
Symptoms usually appear quickly after chewing the plant. While pothos poisoning is rarely fatal, it can be painful and uncomfortable for your pet.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Pothos
If you notice your dog chewing a pothos plant or showing signs of poisoning:
- Remove plant pieces from their mouth gently
- Rinse their mouth with clean water
- Offer fresh water to help soothe irritation
- Contact your veterinarian right away
- If symptoms are serious, visit an animal emergency clinic
Never try to make your dog vomit unless directed by a veterinarian.
How To Keep Dogs Safe Around Pothos
Pet owners do not always need to remove pothos completely, especially if you love indoor plants. Instead, consider these safety tips:
- Place pothos on high shelves or hanging baskets
- Use plant stands away from pet access
- Train your dog to avoid plants
- Provide safe chew toys and pet grass to discourage plant eating
If your dog is curious and tends to nibble on houseplants, it might be better to choose pet safe plants instead.
Dog Safe Alternatives To Pothos
If you want greenery without risk, the following dog friendly plants are great alternatives:
- Spider Plant
- Boston Fern
- Areca Palm
- Parlor Palm
- Calathea
- Peperomia
- Baby Rubber Plant
These plants look beautiful and offer peace of mind for pet owners.
Final Thoughts
Pothos plants are beautiful and easy to care for, but they are not safe for dogs. The calcium oxalate crystals inside pothos can cause mouth pain, drooling and stomach upset if eaten. If you love pothos but also want to protect your dog, keep them out of reach or choose pet safe houseplants instead. A little precaution will help you enjoy a healthy home and a happy pet.
FAQs
Is pothos poisonous to dogs
Yes, pothos is toxic to dogs due to calcium oxalate crystals that cause irritation and stomach issues.
Can pothos kill a dog
Severe cases are rare, but pothos can cause significant pain and discomfort. Quick vet care is advised.
What happens if my dog chews pothos leaves
Your dog may drool, vomit or show signs of mouth irritation and swelling.
Should I get rid of pothos if I have a dog
Not always. You can keep pothos if it is placed safely out of reach. If your dog likes to chew plants, safer options are recommended.
Are there pet safe plants like pothos
Yes. Spider Plant, Calathea and Peperomia are attractive dog safe alternatives.
