plant
Monstera
NOT RECOMMENDED
Monstera plants can irritate the mouth and cause drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing.
What to do
Rinse the mouth with water and contact your vet if symptoms persist.
When to contact a vet: Seek urgent care if your dog has trouble breathing or severe swelling.
Symptoms to look for
- drooling
- pawing at mouth
- vomiting
- difficulty swallowing
- mouth irritation
- swollen lips or tongue
Why
Monstera contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. Chewing the leaves releases needle-like crystals that irritate the mouth, tongue and throat. This causes intense drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting and sometimes swelling that makes swallowing difficult.
- Substances of concern
- insoluble calcium oxalate crystals
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"monstera leaves",stems}
- Preparation
- Keep monstera plants out of reach.
- How much matters
- Usually mild to moderate; airway swelling is uncommon but serious.
- Severity
- Mild to moderate
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Plant toxicity
This answer rests on a single approved source and is queued for further review.
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.