Pothos, those lush green plants often found in homes, might be quietly lurking in your living room with a secret. They’re not poisonous, but they are toxic to cats, and those enticing leaves can spell trouble for your feline friend.
Pothos, with their vibrant leaves and easy maintenance, make them a popular choice for houseplant enthusiasts. However, they contain calcium oxalate crystals that can cause significant discomfort to cats. These crystals are like tiny needles, piercing the soft tissues in your cat’s mouth, throat, and stomach.
Your cat might start pawing at its mouth—a sure sign of irritation if it’s been nibbling on pothos. Excessive drooling might follow as their body tries to wash away those pesky crystals. In some cases, your feline friend could even lose its appetite or vomit as its digestive system rebels against the invasion.
Not all cats will munch on your pothos while you’re watching. Some might stealthily take a bite, leaving you to detect the aftermath. Look for signs like extreme drooling or difficulty swallowing. If left unchecked, these symptoms can worsen, leading to more severe health problems.
If you suspect the problem lies with pothos, contacting your vet is critical. Bring a sample of the plant along to help confirm the cause. At the vet’s office, a thorough check of your cat’s mouth is on the agenda to determine the extent of the damage. There aren’t specific tests to identify pothos poisoning, making your observations vital in crafting a treatment plan.
Once diagnosed, treatment focuses on comfort and recovery. Flushing the mouth to remove those tiny, irritating crystals is often the first step. In some cases, vets suggest dairy products to help soothe the mouth, while other medications might be needed to ease the pain and reduce swelling. Dehydration from vomiting could also require IV fluids.
Thankfully, with prompt treatment, most cats recover quickly. Once the toxins are flushed out and irritation subsides, your cat can begin to feel like its old self again. Soft foods and lots of fluids can help in the short term, ensuring your cat heals properly. Moving forward, it’s wise to keep pothos out of reach or out of your home altogether.
Pothos might not mean harm, but a curious cat could face real trouble from this plant. Besides pothos, other household plants could pose risks too—including anthurium and some willows. A little plant-checking goes a long way in keeping your home safe for curious cats.
While pothos plants bring beauty to a home, they pose a significant threat to curious cats. Keeping these plants out of reach or opting for safer alternatives ensures your pet’s health and happiness. Remember, if your cat shows signs of distress after exploring your plant collection, swift action can prevent complications.
