Reference
Are Pothos and Philodendron Toxic to Cats and Dogs?
The short answer
Yes, both are toxic to cats and dogs. The ASPCA lists pothos (Epipremnum aureum, 'Devil's Ivy') and heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, with the same toxic principle: insoluble calcium oxalates.
When a pet bites the leaves, these crystals cause oral irritation - pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. It is usually not fatal, but it is painful and distressing. If your pet chews either plant, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888-426-4435), especially if swelling affects breathing or swallowing.
Why they cause pain
Both pothos and philodendron belong to the arum family (Araceae) and contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals in their tissues. When a pet chews a leaf, these needle-like crystals are released and physically irritate the mouth and throat - the reaction is immediate and painful, which often stops a pet from eating much more.
The ASPCA lists insoluble calcium oxalates as the toxic principle for both Epipremnum aureum (pothos) and Philodendron hederaceum (heartleaf philodendron), and lists them as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Many other common aroids - such as dieffenbachia, monstera, and peace lily - work the same way.
Signs of chewing pothos or philodendron
The ASPCA lists identical clinical signs for both plants: oral irritation, intense burning and pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not in horses), and difficulty swallowing. A pet may paw at its mouth, drool heavily, or suddenly refuse food.
These signs are usually not life-threatening, but two situations deserve prompt attention: significant swelling that interferes with breathing or swallowing, and a pet that seems to be in severe or persistent distress.
What to do and how to prevent it
If your cat or dog chews pothos or philodendron, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888-426-4435), particularly if there is swelling of the mouth or throat or trouble breathing. Rinsing the mouth and offering something cool to eat or drink can help, but let your vet guide you.
Because both are trailing vines often kept on shelves or in hanging pots, keeping them well out of reach - or choosing a pet-safe alternative - is the simplest fix. See our page on how to check whether a plant is pet-safe for finding non-toxic houseplants.
Sources
Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.
- ASPCA - Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Pothos / Devil's Ivy (Epipremnum aureum) — Lists pothos (Epipremnum aureum) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, toxic principle insoluble calcium oxalates, with signs of oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not horses), and difficulty swallowing.
- ASPCA - Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) — Lists heartleaf philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum) as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses, toxic principle insoluble calcium oxalates, with signs of oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting (not horses), and difficulty swallowing.