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Is Monstera toxic to cats and dogs?

Quick answer

Toxic to cats and dogs. ASPCA lists insoluble calcium oxalates as the toxic substance.

Monstera
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Toxic to cats and dogsCatsDogs

Monstera Monstera deliciosa

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.

  1. Remove the plant from the pet’s reach.
  2. Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately.
  3. When you call, have the plant’s name or a photo ready. Tell the vet roughly how much your pet ate and when.

Do not induce vomiting unless a vet specifically instructs you to. It can make some poisonings worse.

How urgent is it?

Go to a vet now

trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or swelling at the back of the throat.

Call your vet today

vomiting or diarrhea, a pet that will not eat, or a large amount eaten.

Usually settles at home

drooling, head shaking or pawing at the mouth right after a bite. The ASPCA says many of these exposures can be managed at home and long-term effects are not expected.

In the US: ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply).

Symptoms

Possible signs include:

  • Oral irritation
  • Pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue, and lips
  • Excessive drooling
  • Vomiting
  • Difficulty swallowing

Non-toxic plants for similar light

Kentia palmHowea forsterianaBright, indirect lightPet-safeMoney treePachira aquaticaBright, indirect lightPet-safePeacock plantCalathea makoyanaBright, indirect lightPet-safeRattlesnake plantCalathea lancifoliaBright, indirect lightPet-safe

See all pet-safe alternatives →

The 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

Snake plant: pet toxicitySansevieria trifasciataToxic to pets

Common 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.

ASPCA reference · Last reviewed: