At a glance
| Plant | Monstera (Monstera deliciosa) |
|---|---|
| Cats | Toxic |
| Dogs | Toxic |
| Toxic principle | insoluble calcium oxalate crystals |
| Signs ASPCA lists | mouth irritation, with pain and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips; heavy drooling; vomiting; trouble swallowing |
| ASPCA page | Ceriman, checked November 10, 2026 |
What else to know
ASPCA has two pages for this one plant, Ceriman and Swiss Cheese Plant, and both mark it toxic to cats and dogs. Other names on those pages: cutleaf philodendron, hurricane plant and Mexican breadfruit.
Every entry on ASPCA’s lists that names Monstera or Philodendron is marked toxic to both cats and dogs (our count of the lists, Nov 2026). So the split-leaf plants it gets confused with share the verdict.
Look-alikes
- Split leaf philodendron: toxic to cats, toxic to dogs (ASPCA). Same verdict. NC State notes that monstera, often sold as split-leaf philodendron, is not a philodendron at all.
Care basics
Light: Moderate brightness, out of direct sun. Variegated forms need more light than plain green ones.
Soil and water: Water thoroughly, then let the top quarter to third of the pot dry before watering again. It likes 60 to 85°F and high humidity.
Source: NC State Extension Plant Toolbox: Monstera deliciosa.
If your pet ate some
Call your vet, or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435, as soon as you can. ASPCA runs the line 24 hours a day, every day of the year, and says a consultation fee may apply.
Call (888) 426-4435 · ASPCA Animal Poison Control
This page is reference information, not veterinary advice. Toxicity facts are summarized in our own words from the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list; Plamp is not affiliated with the ASPCA.
