Is Swiss Cheese Plant Toxic to Dogs and Cats? (2026)
Monstera deliciosa
Advertisement
Quick facts
| Toxic to dogs | Yes |
|---|---|
| Toxic to cats | Yes |
| Toxic to horses | Yes |
| Toxic component | Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals |
| Onset of symptoms | Within minutes of chewing |
| Indoor / outdoor | indoor |
If your pet ate this plant
Both lines are staffed 24/7. A consultation fee applies to each. Do not wait for symptoms to appear before calling.
Advertisement
Symptoms in dogs
- Oral pain
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
Symptoms in cats
- Oral pain
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Pawing at mouth
Advertisement
What to do
Offer water to help rinse remaining crystals from the mouth. Most cases resolve with supportive care at home; seek vet care if swelling of the mouth or throat develops or vomiting persists beyond a few hours.
Toxic component and mechanism
The toxic component in Swiss Cheese Plant is insoluble calcium oxalate crystals.
What makes this plant different
Swiss Cheese Plant's distinctive fenestrated leaves make it one of the most recognizable statement houseplants, and correspondingly a frequent chew target for bored indoor cats — the plant's dramatic look outpaces its actual (mild) toxicity.
Plant identification
- Scientific name
- Monstera deliciosa
- Family
- Araceae
- Also known as
- Swiss Cheese Plant, Cutleaf Philodendron, Hurricane Plant, Ceriman, Mexican Breadfruit
- Typically found
- indoor
Advertisement
Related plants
Adam-and-Eve
Arum maculatum
Alocasia
Alocasia spp.
Arrow-Head Vine
Syngonium podophyllum
Arum
Arum maculatum
Arum Lily
Zantedeschia aethiopica
Last verified: July 2, 2026 · Cross-referenced with ASPCA Animal Poison Control