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Pothos vs. English Ivy: which is safe for cats and dogs?

Pothos and English Ivy are frequently confused because both are commonly referred to as ivy, leading many shoppers to mistakenly assume they share the same care requirements and safety profiles. It is important to know that both Pothos and English Ivy are potentially toxic to cats and dogs. While they belong to different botanical families, both plants contain compounds that cause significant irritation and gastrointestinal distress if ingested by your pets. Because both options pose risks to your animals, you should handle them with care and keep them out of reach. Below, we break down the specific reactions and safety considerations for each plant to help you make an informed decision.

Pothos

Epipremnum aureum

Devil's Ivy is a popular trailing houseplant known for its heart-shaped leaves and ease of care. It contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that can cause irritation if ingested by pets.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Oral irritation, intense burning and irritation of mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.

Full Pothos reference →

English Ivy

Hedera helix

English Ivy is a popular evergreen climbing vine often grown as a houseplant or groundcover. It contains triterpenoid saponins which can cause irritation if ingested by pets.

cat

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Vomiting, abdominal pain, hypersalivation, and diarrhea.

dog

Potentially toxic

Consulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.

Watch for

Vomiting, abdominal pain, excessive drooling, and diarrhea.

Full English Ivy reference →

Safer alternatives

Safer pick

Baby Rubber Plant

Peperomia obtusifolia

Baby rubber plant is the safest pet-proof swap that keeps the small, glossy, trailing look.

Generally safe for cats & dogs.

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