Marble Queen pothos (Epipremnum aureum), also known as Golden Pothos, is a popular houseplant that can be toxic to cats. While cats are not technically allergic to Marble Queen, ingesting any part of the plant can cause serious health issues due to the presence of insoluble calcium oxalates.
These toxic compounds are found throughout the plant, including the leaves, stems, and roots. Marble Queen pothos is commonly found as a hanging or trailing indoor plant in homes and offices.
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.
Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.
Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.
Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.
All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.
** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.
If a cat ingests any part of a Marble Queen pothos plant, they may experience a range of symptoms due to the calcium oxalate crystals. These sharp, needle-like crystals can cause immediate irritation and pain in the mouth, tongue, and throat. Common symptoms of Marble Queen pothos poisoning in cats include:
In severe cases, ingesting large amounts of the plant can lead to difficulty breathing, kidney failure, and even death.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Marble Queen pothos, it’s crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. Your veterinarian will likely follow these steps to diagnose and treat your cat:
For more information on what to expect during a veterinary visit for plant poisoning, visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.
A: Yes, the Marble Queen plant, also known as Marble Queen Pothos, is toxic to cats. The plant contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation in your cat’s mouth and digestive system if ingested.
A: If a cat consumes Marble Queen, symptoms can include mouth irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. The calcium oxalate crystals cause immediate discomfort and may lead to more severe gastrointestinal issues.
A: Marble Queen is moderately toxic, similar to other Pothos varieties that contain calcium oxalate crystals. While not as deadly as Lilies, ingestion can still lead to serious health problems in cats.
A: Safe, non-toxic alternatives to Marble Queen include plants like the Spider Plant and Boston Fern. These plants are safe for cats and allow you to add greenery to your home without worrying about toxicity.
A: To keep your cat safe, place the Marble Queen in an area that is out of reach or use barriers like plant shelves. Additionally, offering pet-safe plants and distractions can help reduce your cat’s interest in toxic plants.
A: If your cat eats Marble Queen, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early treatment can help manage the symptoms and prevent more serious health complications like severe gastrointestinal distress.
Marble Queen pothos is a cultivar of the species Epipremnum aureum, native to French Polynesia. It was first described by botanists in 1880 and has since become a popular ornamental plant worldwide due to its attractive variegated foliage and ease of care.
The plant gained its common name, Golden Pothos, due to its resilience and ability to grow in low-light conditions. Marble Queen pothos has been a staple in indoor gardening since the mid-20th century and continues to be a favored houseplant despite its toxicity to pets.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
