I didn’t get rid of this plant because it looked bad.
I didn’t remove it because it was hard to care for.
I removed it because I finally learned what happens when cats chew on it.
And I’m honestly surprised how often this plant still gets recommended for homes with pets.
The plant I’m talking about: pothos
Pothos is everywhere. It’s one of the most suggested beginner houseplants for a reason.
It grows fast.
It tolerates low light.
It forgives missed waterings.
I had one trailing across a shelf, looking perfect. Until I learned that pothos is toxic to cats.
Not deadly like lilies, but enough to cause pain, distress, and vet visits.
Why pothos is risky for cats (even “non-chewers”)
Pothos contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. When a cat bites into the leaf or stem, these microscopic crystals embed into the soft tissues of the mouth and throat.
That leads to:
- Immediate mouth irritation
- Excessive drooling
- Pawing at the face
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
Some cats react within minutes.
What caught me off guard is how attractive pothos vines are to cats. They dangle. They sway. They look like toys.
Even cats that “never touch plants” can suddenly decide to bite a leaf.
Why placement doesn’t really solve the problem
I tried convincing myself I could keep it safely:
- High shelf
- Hanging planter
- Out of reach
But pothos sheds leaves. Vines grow longer than expected. Cats jump higher than you think.
All it takes is one fallen leaf on the floor.
Once I realized that, the plant stopped feeling harmless.
The moment I decided it wasn’t worth it
I watched my cat bat at a vine that had grown longer overnight. He didn’t chew it that time, but that was enough for me.
Houseplants are replaceable. Pets aren’t.
I cut the vines, removed the plant, and replaced it with something cat-safe the same day.
What I keep instead (with zero stress)
These give me the same visual impact without the risk:
- Spider plant
- Cast-iron plant
- Calathea
- Areca palm
- Parlor palm
They still trail, fill space, and soften a room. I just don’t worry every time my cat walks by.
My rule now for houseplants and cats
If a plant causes pain on contact or chewing, I don’t keep it.
Even if the internet calls it “mildly toxic.”
Even if it’s labeled “low risk.”
Cats explore with their mouths. That’s just reality.
Once I started choosing plants with that in mind, caring for my home became simpler, not more restrictive.
Why this is one plant decision I don’t second-guess
Pothos is a great plant. Just not for every home.
If you live with a cat, especially one that’s curious, playful, or young, this is one of those plants that looks innocent until it isn’t.
And once you know that, it’s hard to ignore.
