Monstera Monstera deliciosa
Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals · ASPCA
What to do if your pet ate it
If you think your cat or dog ate any part of the plant, act quickly. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
- Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
- Have the plant’s name or a photo, roughly how much, and when it happened ready when you call.
Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
Symptoms
Possible signs include:
- Oral irritation
- Pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
Non-toxic plants for the same spot and light
Non-toxic plants that suit the same spot:
Spider plantChlorophytum comosumMedium / indirect lightPet-safe
Moth orchidPhalaenopsis spp.Medium / indirect lightPet-safe
Boston fernNephrolepis exaltataMedium / indirect lightPet-safe
Kentia palmHowea forsterianaMedium / indirect lightPet-safeThe ASPCA Ceriman record identifies Monstera deliciosa as toxic to cats and dogs, names insoluble calcium oxalates, and lists the signs shown above. This is reference information, not veterinary advice.
All Monstera guides
Related plants
Same genus or the same care pattern.
Frequently asked questions
Is Monstera toxic to cats?
Yes. Monstera deliciosa is toxic to cats. Insoluble calcium oxalates can cause oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
Is Monstera toxic to dogs?
Yes. Monstera deliciosa is toxic to dogs. Insoluble calcium oxalates can cause oral irritation, pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing.
What should I do if my cat ate Monstera?
Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (24/7). Try to bring a piece of the plant or a photo so the vet can identify the species. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a professional.
Can I keep Monstera with pets?
Monstera is toxic to cats and dogs, so it is best kept out of reach: ideally in a room your pets cannot access, or replaced with a non-toxic alternative. See the pet-safe alternatives listed on this page.
ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: 2026-09-01