What are the symptoms if a cat eats Monstera / Split-Leaf Philodendron?

Intense burning and irritation of the mouth, accompanied by crying out in pain, Excessive drooling or hypersalivation, Swelling of the mouth and tongue, leading to difficulty swallowing, Vomiting

←

✕ Toxic

Monstera / Split-Leaf Philodendron

Q: Is Monstera / Split-Leaf Philodendron toxic to cats?

Warning: Toxic. Monstera (Monstera deliciosa and M. adansonii), often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a popular houseplant that is toxic to cats. It contains tiny, needle-shaped crystals called insoluble calcium oxalates. These crystals act like tiny shards of glass rather than a chemical poison. When a cat bites the leaves or stems, these sharp crystals are shot into the mouth and throat. This causes immediate, intense burning and pain. Because it hurts so much right away, most cats stop eating the plant before they swallow a dangerous amount. However, the swelling can sometimes make it difficult for the cat to swallow or breathe. A cat that has chewed on a Monstera will usually drool heavily, paw at its mouth, and may have swollen lips or a swollen tongue. You can try rinsing the mouth with water, but if your cat is having trouble breathing or the swelling is severe, please contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.

Monstera deliciosa or Monstera adansonii

Monstera (Monstera deliciosa and M. adansonii), often called the Swiss Cheese Plant, is a popular houseplant that is toxic to cats. It contains tiny, needle-shaped crystals called insoluble calcium oxalates. These crystals act like tiny shards of glass rather than a chemical poison. When a cat bites the leaves or stems, these sharp crystals are shot into the mouth and throat. This causes immediate, intense burning and pain. Because it hurts so much right away, most cats stop eating the plant before they swallow a dangerous amount. However, the swelling can sometimes make it difficult for the cat to swallow or breathe. A cat that has chewed on a Monstera will usually drool heavily, paw at its mouth, and may have swollen lips or a swollen tongue. You can try rinsing the mouth with water, but if your cat is having trouble breathing or the swelling is severe, please contact a veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.

Important Notes

Toxic compounds: insoluble calcium oxalate raphides; proteolytic enzymes in the sap intensify the reaction

Mechanism: crystals are forcefully ejected into the mouth and throat lining when plant tissue is damaged, causing mechanical burns and swelling

Symptoms: sudden oral pain, intense drooling, pawing at mouth, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), swollen lips and tongue, vomiting

Severe throat swelling may impair breathing — seek veterinary attention immediately in this case

Rinse the mouth with water; contact your vet if swallowing is impaired or symptoms do not quickly subside

Potentially Toxic Parts

Leaf

Possible Symptoms Reported in Cats

Swelling of the mouth and tongue, leading to difficulty swallowing

Gastrointestinal · Immediate

Intense burning and irritation of the mouth, accompanied by crying out in pain

Gastrointestinal · Immediate (upon chewing or biting)

Excessive drooling or hypersalivation

Gastrointestinal · Immediate (upon chewing or biting)

Vomiting

Gastrointestinal · Shortly after ingestion (typically follows the initial oral irritation if swallowed).

Disclaimer: This summary was compiled from multiple sources and is for informational use only. It is not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Toxicity can vary based on the substance, amount, plant part, and individual cat. If you think your cat may have been exposed to a toxic substance, contact a veterinarian right away.