plant
Pothos
NOT RECOMMENDED
Pothos can irritate the mouth and gut and cause drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
What to do
Rinse the mouth with water and contact your vet if symptoms persist.
When to contact a vet: Seek urgent care if your dog has trouble breathing or severe swelling.
Symptoms to look for
- drooling
- pawing at mouth
- vomiting
- difficulty swallowing
- mouth irritation
Why
Pothos contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing the leaves releases crystals that irritate the mouth and throat. Most cases are mild and self-limiting, but swelling of the airway is possible in rare cases.
- Substances of concern
- insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"pothos leaves",stems}
- Preparation
- Keep pothos plants out of reach.
- How much matters
- Usually mild; large amounts can cause more severe irritation.
- Severity
- Mild to moderate
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Plant toxicity
This answer rests on a single approved source and is queued for further review.
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.