Are Monsteras Toxic to Cats? Symptoms & What to Do

Mildly toxic

Yes, monsteras are mildly toxic to cats

Monstera contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing a leaf causes immediate burning in the mouth, so most pets stop quickly.

Monsteras and cats: key facts

Toxic to cats?	Mildly toxic
Toxic to dogs?	Mildly toxic
Scientific name	Monstera deliciosa
Also called	Swiss cheese plant, split-leaf philodendron
Toxic compound	Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
Toxic parts	Leaves and stems (ripe fruit is edible for people)
Signs usually start	Immediate (within minutes of chewing)
Plant type	Houseplant

Symptoms of monsteras poisoning in cats

Mouth pain and pawing at the face
Drooling
Vomiting
Swelling of the lips and tongue
Difficulty swallowing

Why monsteras are toxic to cats

The plant cells contain bundles of needle-shaped calcium oxalate crystals (raphides). When a pet bites into the leaf, the crystals are ejected and embed in the mouth, tongue and throat, causing immediate burning pain, drooling and swelling. The crystals are not absorbed into the body, so organ damage is not expected.

What to do if your cat ate monsteras

Remove plant pieces from your cat's mouth and move cats away from the plant. Wipe sap or pollen off the fur and paws with a damp cloth.
Call your vet or animal poison control for advice: ASPCA Animal Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661.
Identify the plant. Take a photo or bring a piece (or the plant label) to the vet, and estimate how much was eaten and when.
Do not make your cat vomit unless a vet tells you to. Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide or salt can cause serious harm, and hydrogen peroxide is not safe for cats.
Watch for mouth pain and pawing at the face, drooling, vomiting. Go to a vet if signs are severe, last more than a day, or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

Treatment and outlook

Most cases need only supportive care. Gently rinse your pet's mouth with water and offer water to drink. A vet may give pain relief, anti-nausea medicine or an antihistamine for swelling. Go to a vet right away if you see swelling of the throat or any trouble breathing.

How to keep your cat away from monsteras

Place monsteras on high shelves or in hanging planters away from furniture cats can climb, or in a room your cat cannot enter.
Give your cat something better to chew: a pot of cat grass or catnip often distracts cats from houseplants.
Pick up fallen leaves, petals and pollen promptly, and empty vases where pets can reach them.

Pet-safe alternatives to monsteras

If you love houseplants, these are listed as non-toxic to cats by the ASPCA:

See the full list of plants safe for cats.

Monsteras and cats: FAQ

Are monsteras poisonous to cats?

Monsteras are mildly toxic to cats. Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals can cause mouth pain and pawing at the face and drooling, but serious poisoning is uncommon.

What part of monsteras is toxic to cats?

Leaves and stems (ripe fruit is edible for people).

Can cats die from eating monsteras?

It is very unlikely. Monsteras usually cause mild, short-lived signs. See a vet if signs are severe or your cat has trouble breathing or swallowing.

How long after eating monsteras will my cat show symptoms?

Immediate (within minutes of chewing).

Are monsteras toxic to dogs too?

Yes, monsteras are mildly toxic to dogs.

Other plants toxic to cats

Sources

Toxicity ratings follow the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center plant lists. Severity depends on the amount eaten, the part of the plant and your cat's size and health. When in doubt, call your vet.

Are Monsteras Toxic to Cats?