Are pothos toxic to dogs?
Why pothos is toxic
Pothos, also known as devil's ivy, contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When a dog bites or chews the plant, these microscopic crystals are released and can penetrate the soft tissues of the mouth, tongue, and throat, causing intense burning and irritation.
The toxic principle is similar to that found in other aroids like peace lilies and philodendrons. All parts of the plant are toxic, but the leaves and stems are most commonly chewed.
Symptoms and what to do
Symptoms of pothos poisoning in dogs typically appear within minutes to hours after ingestion. They include excessive drooling, pawing at the mouth, oral pain, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. In severe cases, swelling can obstruct the airway.
If you suspect your dog has eaten pothos, rinse the mouth with water and offer a small amount of milk or yogurt to help soothe irritation. Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control hotline immediately for guidance. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the mouth
- Oral pain or swelling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
- Contact vet or poison control
Prevention tips
The best way to protect your dog is to keep pothos out of reach. Hang it from the ceiling or place it on a high shelf that your dog cannot access. Alternatively, choose pet-safe plants like spider plant or Boston fern.
If you have a particularly determined chewer, consider using a bitter spray on the leaves or placing the plant in a room your dog cannot enter.
Common mistakes
- Thinking that pothos is only mildly toxic and can be left within reach—even small amounts can cause significant oral pain.
- Waiting for symptoms to worsen before calling a vet; early intervention can prevent serious complications.
- Assuming that because a plant is common, it must be safe—many popular houseplants are toxic to pets.
