Is Devils Ivy Plant Safe for My Pets?

If you’re a plant enthusiast and a pet owner, you may wonder if your furry friends are safe around your indoor garden. One popular houseplant that has been gaining popularity in recent years is Devil’s Ivy, also known as Pothos or Epipremnum aureum. While it’s a beautiful and easy-to-care-for plant, many pet owners worry about its safety. In this article, we’ll explore whether Devil’s Ivy is safe for your pets.

What is Devil’s Ivy?

Devil’s Ivy is a trailing vine native to the Solomon Islands, which can grow up to 66 feet long! It has heart-shaped leaves that come in different shades of green and yellow. It’s an excellent air-purifying plant that can remove toxins like formaldehyde, benzene, and xylene from the air.

Is Devil’s Ivy toxic to pets?

The answer is yes; Devil’s Ivy is toxic to pets. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and lips of your pets if ingested. It can also lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and difficulty swallowing.

The ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) lists Devil’s Ivy as toxic to both cats and dogs. Other common names for this plant include Golden Pothos, Taro Vine, and Ceylon Creeper.

How to keep your pets safe around Devil’s Ivy?

If you have Devil’s Ivy in your home, it’s essential to keep it out of reach of your pets. Here are some tips to help you keep your pets safe:

• Place the plant in a hanging basket or on a high shelf where your pet cannot reach it.
• Train your pets not to chew plants indoors by using positive reinforcement techniques.
• If you notice any signs of poisoning in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What are the benefits of having Devil’s Ivy in your home?

While it’s true that Devil’s Ivy is toxic to pets, it also has many benefits for humans. Here are some of the benefits of having Devil’s Ivy in your home:

• It’s an excellent air-purifying plant that can remove toxins from the air.
• It’s easy to care for and can thrive in low-light conditions.
• It’s a beautiful plant that can add a touch of greenery to your home decor.

Other pet-friendly plants

If you’re looking for pet-friendly indoor plants that are safe for your furry friends, here are some options:

• Spider Plant
• Boston Fern
• African Violet
• Christmas Cactus
• Bamboo Palm

FAQ

Can Devil’s Ivy be harmful to humans?

Yes, Devil’s Ivy can be harmful to humans if ingested. The calcium oxalate crystals present in the plant can cause irritation and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and lips.

Can Devil’s Ivy survive in low-light conditions?

Yes, Devil’s Ivy can survive in low-light conditions. However, it may not grow as well or look as healthy as it would in bright, indirect light.

How often should I water my Devil’s Ivy?

Devil’s Ivy prefers moist soil but does not like to sit in standing water. Water your plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.

Is there a way to make Devil’s Ivy safe for pets?

No, there is no way to make Devil’s Ivy safe for pets. It’s best to keep it out of reach of your furry friends.

In conclusion, while Devil’s Ivy is a beautiful and beneficial plant for humans, it’s essential to keep it away from pets due to its toxic nature. If you’re looking for pet-friendly indoor plants, there are many other options available that are safe for your furry friends.