Some of your indoor plants are just not safe if you have pets or young children, which is a sad but inevitable realization in the road of becoming a plant parent. While many common genera of houseplants are stunning to look at, many of them are moderately or seriously hazardous. Still others, when handled excessively, can irritate the skin.
The good news is that with enough preparation, you can determine which dangerous houseplants to stay away from, evaluate the risk to your family and pets, and still enjoy a lively and stunningly green collection of indoor plants.
Here are 10 toxic houseplants that, while we love them, should be used with caution if your children or pets will have access to them. A word of clarity, though, is in need before we proceed: “toxic is a relative term, and the severity of a reaction will depend largely on the level of exposure (amount consumed), which plant species, and the specifics of your pet. Some poisonous houseplants cause short-lived, acute symptoms (such as vomiting). Some can have more serious, life-threatening effects if swallowed in excess, while others only irritate the skin. This list is by no means intended to be comprehensive, so we strongly advise conducting additional research (ASPCA has a great database for pet owners).
Poisonous Houseplants for Pet Owners and Parents to Avoid
- Starting with one of the biggest players, Philodendron (and Monstera) is a vast genus of tropical plants that is particularly well-liked for usage inside because of its great variety of growing habits, leaf shapes, and colors. Plants in this genus are poisonous to dogs and cats as well as somewhat toxic to humans. Oral irritation, soreness and swelling in the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing are all signs of exposure.
How will my dog react if it consumes Monstera?
Your dog will start to feel discomfort in their mouth and on their lips as soon as they ingest a Monstera leaf. Along with swelling of the mouth and esophagus, which can make it difficult to swallow and eat, vomiting may also happen.
Your dog may exhibit the following signs if they have consumed any Monstera plant material:
- their lips, mouth, and/or tongue are burning
- irritation in their mouth, throat, and even on their lips and tongue.
- excessive salivation
- Having trouble swallowing
- scratching their mouth or pawing at it
- Vomiting
More serious and potentially fatal issues can develop if the dog eats a large amount of Monstera. This covers death, coma, liver failure, kidney failure, and more. Fortunately, most dogs don’t consume enough Monstera to result in such major health issues, but that doesn’t mean it can’t happen.
It is advised to keep the Monstera out of your pet’s reach because it can cause a situation that could be life-threatening. Additionally, you must promptly pick up any leaves or other plant materials that have fallen to the ground from the plant.
Will Monstera kill my dog?
If your dog eats a lot of the plant, monstera poisoning can be lethal. Fortunately, most cases do not pose a life-threatening risk, in part because dogs avoid eating the plant because it tastes so bad. The majority of dogs who chew on Monstera plants recover fully.
Nevertheless, you shouldn’t ignore the situation if you see your dog gnawing on a Monstera plant. If your dog has consumed any Monstera plant, contact poison control or your veterinarian. It is advised to err on the side of caution with any health condition because the plant might be fatal.
It is advised to take your dog to the vet as a preventative measure because they may assist in treating any potential symptoms that your dog may be exhibiting. Even while you might not want to spend the extra money on a vet appointment, if you wait until more severe symptoms appear, you may end up with a much greater bill.
How long do the symptoms of Monstera poisoning last in dogs?
For a few days to perhaps a few weeks, Monstera poisoning might cause side effects. However, keep in mind that this can change based on how much of the plant your dog consumes and their size. The majority of the time, side symptoms should start to go away after 48 hours.
Because side effects can differ, it is advisable to keep an eye on your dog. Keep a record of when they last ate, drank, and went to the restroom. In the event that they haven’t urinated, eaten, or drunk anything in more than 24 hours, call an emergency veterinarian right away.
Why are monsteras inhospitable to pets?
Because of their insoluble sharp or needle-like oxalate crystals, or insoluble calcium oxalate known as raphides, monstera are toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets. When chewed or swallowed, they will embed in mucus, causing intense stinging or burning in the mouth, throat, or lips.
The Monstera plant’s leaves, fruits, stems, roots, and flowers are all poisonous or toxic. And since all 45 species are affected, even M. adansonii, Split-leaf philodendron, and Monstera deliciosa are poisonous to cats, dogs, and other animals.
We are aware that fully ripened Monstera deliciosa fruits are safe to eat and not poisonous. However, avoid giving them to your dog or cat because they might not be the healthiest option.
The majority of the other houseplants in the Araceae family, excluding Monstera, also contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. These plants consist of:
- stupid cane (Dieffenbachia spp.)
- Asian evergreen (Aglaonema)
- Calm lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
- Caladium lily
- Philodendrons
- Huge Taro (Alocasia antiquorum)
- Flowering Flamingo (Anthurium spp.)
- Animal ears (Caladium spp.)
- Pothos
But because the concentration of these crystals varies from plant to plant, the intensity of the symptoms vary as well. For instance, the symptoms from a dumb cane will be more severe.
If you are already frightened, it may help to know that Monstera plants are only moderately toxic, meaning they are not as dangerous as Vinca or Azalea (Rhododendron spp.). Not even in the same league as an amaryllis, a sago palm, some lilies (Lilium sp.), a snake plant, etc. They are hazardous or destructive nonetheless.
Last but not least, Monstera has a level 3 or 4 of severity. Level 1 plants are typically extremely hazardous and may result in serious illness or even death, but level 2 plants are just mildly poisonous and only cause vomiting and digestive problems.
Is the Monstera Deliciosa plant animal-friendly?
Calcium oxalate crystals, which the Monstera Deliciosa plant possesses, are extremely harmful to animals, including cats. So kindly keep your animals away from it.
Is the Monstera Deliciosa plant edible?
Please do not eat the majority of Monstera Deliciosa houseplant and ornamental plant varieties. Before buying, kindly confirm with your neighborhood vendor that it is available in edible form.
What are the symptoms of Monstera Deliciosa plant poisoning cats?
Your cat may exhibit severe oral cavity irritation and burning, profuse drooling, and vomiting in the event of Monstera Deliciosa plant poisoning.
Are snake plants safe for pets?
Snake plants are exceptionally well-liked indoor plants due to their striking look and ease of maintenance. Unfortunately, they are also toxic to dogs and, if eaten, can result in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, according to the ASPCA. If you suspect your dog has consumed any part of a snake plant, you should call your vet straight away. Depending on the severity, you might just need to keep an eye on your dog’s symptoms and treat them, or you could need to send your dog to the vet for more forceful treatment. These cleaning advices are for all pet owners.
Is Monstera toxic to handle?
such a rule
Not simply for poison ivy, “Leaves of three, let it be!” Poison oak, a closely related species, with rounder, lobed leaves that resemble oak leaves and can come in groups of three or five. All plant parts, including the leaves, stem, roots, and flowers, contain an oil called urushiol that can bind to the skin in just a minute. If you suspect contact, wash all of your gardening equipment because it can also stick to clothing and tools. Although its pointed-oval leaflets are distributed in groupings of seven or thirteen, poison sumac belongs to the same family.
Stinging Nettles
More than two dozen chemical compounds that are present in stinging nettles can make skin swell, itch, burn, and develop blisters that can last up to 12 hours. This herb can grow almost 6 feet tall and has pointed, jagged leaves and tiny hairs all over, which act like little needles to deliver the toxins to those who touch it.
Hyacinth Bulbs
For some people, many kinds of bulbsincluding hyacinths, elephant ears, tulips, daffodils, and buttercupscan cause irritant dermatitis. Your hands may become irritated and red after touching them without gloves. When I worked at a greenhouse, I usually wore gloves, but after planting hyacinth bulbs, I once touched my eye, and it felt itchy and nasty.
Philodendron and Monstera Deliciosa
Popular houseplants include the philodendron, monstera deliciosa, caladium, dumbcane, and peace lily, all of which are members of the Araceae (arum) family. However: Calcium oxalate crystals on their stems and leaves are poisonous. Although they won’t damage your hands, if you touch your lips, mouth, or tongue after touching the plant, they may sting or irritate you. At its worst, Myers explains, it can feel as though your larynx is paralyzed. It may be beneficial to use gloves or wash your hands after handling these plants.
Poinsettia
Poinsettias can be harmful to humans as well as animals if consumed. They can irritate human skin, along with other members of the Euphorbia family (including pencil trees and spurges). Fortunately, the majority of people simply feel slight annoyance. Additionally, while it is untrue that eating poinsettias can make you sick, it is still possible.
English Ivy
English ivy, which grows on the walls of many older homes, doesn’t bother everyone. However, if you have an allergy to it, you should prepare for redness, itching, and possibly even small blisters after touching it. The first time you encounter it, you might not respond, but after the second exposure, your body will become sensitive.
What would happen if my cat digests Monstera Deliciosa?
The cat will experience severe agony and vomit if it consumes Monstera Deliciosa. The cat would have trouble eating and digesting since its mouth and esophagus would be swollen.
What to do if my cat has eaten Monstera Deliciosa?
The cat must be taken as quickly as possible to the veterinarian. There is no cause for concern if neither the symptoms nor the signs exist. Place the Monstera Deliciosa as far away from the cat as possible.
Why are cats attracted to Monstera Deliciosa?
Cats are naturally inquisitive creatures who enjoy messing around with plants. The Deliciosa plant’s tall, glossy leaves frequently lure the cat.
Can cats eat small Monstera plants?
One bite is all it takes for your cat to become toxic enough to develop Monstera poisoning symptoms. Even though a single bite usually won’t be lethal, the symptoms will get worse the more Monstera the cat consumes.
Most cats won’t eat that much Monstera because even a tiny nibble can inflict excruciating mouth pain and burning, and Monstera poisoning is often not fatal unless ingested in massive quantities.
Even though it is frequently not harmful for your cat to chew on a Monstera, it is best to consult your veterinarian or poison control as soon as you can for advice. They can direct you toward the actions that are best for your cat.
Are Mini Monsteras poisonous to cats?
Cats should avoid Mini Monstera (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma), which also has insoluble calcium oxalate crystals like the Swiss cheese plant. Cats should not be allowed to interact with either micro Monstera or Monstera plants because they both have the potential to harm your pets in the same ways due to their toxicity.
Although it belongs to the same Araceae family as Monstera, the Mini Monstera (Rhaphidophora tetrasperma) isn’t a true Monstera plant. They have the same distinctive holes in the leaves as Monstera, thus they do resemble it. Even when consumed, they have the same side effects.
The Mini Monstera, on the other hand, is smaller and doesn’t yield Monstera fruit like the real plant does. Importantly, though, their leaves are just as toxic as the Monstera plant, and can result in an unpleasant experience for your cat if they swallow the plant’s leaves.
Are cats hazardous to Swiss cheese plants?
Crystals of insoluble calcium oxalate, found in the Swiss cheese plant, enter the tissue of the cat’s mouth and, among other symptoms, create excruciating discomfort. However, just one bite is needed to result in this disease. Most cats will only take one bite of the plant before losing interest due to its unpleasant taste.
Even while Swiss cheese plant poisoning seldom results in death, it is nonetheless a serious condition. Even if there are no issues, your cat will still be in excruciating agony. In some circumstances, it might lead to the cat’s airways swelling up. If you see the signs of Swiss cheese plant poisoning, get your cat to the vet as soon as you can.
The Swiss cheese plant, often referred to as the Mexican breadfruit, hurricane plant, or cutleaf philodendron, is a popular choice for usage as a decorative plant in yards and houses. However, if swallowed, it can be hazardous to tiny animals, including cats.
Are cats poisonous to Swiss cheese monsteras?
Cats are poisoned by the Swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa). Insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that penetrate the oral mucosa and cause excruciating pain and burning are the poisonous principle. Crystals of calcium oxalate are organized in bundles called raphides and are formed by specialized cells called idioblasts. They serve as a defense mechanism against animals that consume plants.
What plants are the most hazardous to cats?
We looked into some of the most hazardous plants that your cat might come into contact with from the ASPCA’s list.
- Lilies.
- palm sago.
- Rhododendrons and Azaleas.
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
- Cannabis.
- Scorpion Plant.
- black violet
- Plant Air (Tillandsia)
Does Pothos allow pets?
Household plants may undoubtedly add life to a space, but some of them are actually harmful to your dogs and even deadly if they consume them. The plants on the list below are dangerous to pets because of the toxic compounds they contain. All pet owners are advised to become familiar with these plants because they go by many different names. Additionally, it’s a smart idea to keep a first-aid kit on hand for your pet in case of any accidents.
Lilies
Although the Lily family of plants is highly diverse, some of its species are poisonous to dogs and cats. While the Stargazer and Easter Lilies are poisonous to both cats and dogs, the Mauna Loa, also known as the Peace Lily, is poisonous to both. In fact, cats may not survive if the Stargazer and Easter Lily are left untreated since it affects the cat’s kidneys and appetite. As for the Peace Lily, if it’s consumed, your dog or cat can start vomiting and struggle to swallow because of irritated lips and tongue.
Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a beautiful plant for people because of its ability to smooth skin, but it has the opposite effect on dogs who are kept as pets. The plant’s other parts can impair a dog’s digestive tract, but the leaves contain a form of gel substance that won’t hurt your pet if it is consumed.
Ivy (Hedera Helix)
We’ve all heard of poison ivy, but even common ivy, which is rather attractive, can be hazardous to dogs. If the plant is consumed, a dog might get a rash and/or have respiratory issues, but things might become lot worse because poison ivy can also cause paralysis or a coma.
Jade (Crassula Ovata)
The Jade plant is also known as Baby Jade, the Friendship Tree, the Dwarf Rubber Plant, the Chinese or Japanese Rubber Plant, and the Jade Tree. Whatever you choose to call it, make sure to keep your pet cat or dog away from it. Although the precise poisons in this plant are unknown, eating it can cause vomiting, ataxia (loss of coordination), bradycardia (slow heartbeat), and/or sadness.
Dumb Cane (Dieffenbachia)
The poisonous plant Dieffenbachia is also known as Dumb Cane, Exotica, or Tropic Snow, and it is toxic to both dogs and cats. The poisonous chemicals in this plant can cause vomiting, trouble swallowing, burning/swelling of the mouth and tongue, as well as excessive salivation. It may occasionally result in respiratory problems or even death.
Elephant Ear (Caladium)
Other popular names for this vibrant plant species include Malanga, Via Sori, Pai, Taro, Cape, or Ape. Because the compounds in it are comparable to those in Dieffenbachia, the reactions are practically identical. As a result, your pet may experience oral issues, increased salivation or drooling, vomiting, and swallowing issues.
Pothos/Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum Aureum)
The plant, also known as Satin or Silk Pothos, can irritate the mouth and tongue and is poisonous to both dogs and cats. Your pet may also experience nausea, increased salivation, and trouble swallowing. The plant can produce symptoms that are similar to those of Philodendron.
This strange-looking shrub can harm your dog in all of its parts. This applies to everything—leaves, roots, and even seeds. Every portion of the plant is deadly, and eating any of it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even liver failure.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas)
Your pet shouldn’t consume this plant because it may cause irritated reactions like diarrhea and vomiting.
This plant, also known as Emerald Fern, Emerald Feather, Sprengeri Fern, Lace Fern, and Plumosa Fern, is harmful to both dogs and cats. If the berries are consumed, the plant’s sapogenin toxin, which is present in the berries, can cause diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin inflammation.
Sowbread (Cyclamen)
This flowering plant will add color to any space, but dogs and cats should avoid it. When ingested, it may cause excessive salivation and drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, an irregular heartbeat, and/or seizures. In extreme situations, it may even be fatal.
There are a number of plant varieties that are suitable for your pet dog to use as decorations in your home because they don’t contain any toxic chemicals or toxins. Hens and Chicks, Burro’s Tail, Blue Echeveria, Ponytail Palm, and Bamboo are the most prevalent and well-liked of these.