Your dog may paw at their mouth or otherwise show signs of facial pain if they consume a piece of a monstera plant. Calcium oxalate crystals in a dog’s mouth can inflict pain, irritation, swelling of the mouth, tongue, and throat, as well as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, trouble swallowing, excessive drooling, and choking.
Though each of these signs of poisoning can be concerning, the last one is particularly risky. Your dog may become unable to breathe if the swelling is too severe, prompting an urgent trip to the clinic.
How well your dog’s body can process eating a part of a monstera may depend on factors like age, size, and any underlying medical issues. Thankfully, pets usually do not die after consuming a monstera plant. A dog that has consumed or bit into a portion of a monstera plant, nevertheless, needs to be properly watched for any severe adverse reactions, such as oral discomfort that intensifies.
In order to try and ease the pain or wash out some of the crystals, it is also a good idea to encourage your pet to drink some water. However, this is unlikely to completely relieve their discomfort.
It is also OK to take a dog who has consumed monstera to the doctor as a preventative step, even if it appears that they did not consume much of the plant. Your veterinarian will probably be able to assist your dog manage the pain even if the reaction is not life-threatening.
You might also call the Pet Poison Helpline at (855)764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888)426-4425 for help and guidance, but it’s crucial to know that both programs charge $75 for a consultation.
As was already indicated, your dog won’t likely continue chewing on the plant after taking an exploratory bite because of the discomfort the calcium oxalate crystals will cause. Once a dog has experienced the reaction, they are unlikely to want to try to eat the plant again. The reaction sets in quickly (approximately 30 seconds), so they are likely to link cause and effect.
To be cautious, it is generally a good idea to relocate the monstera plant out of your dog’s reach even if he has already bitten a plant in the past and is unlikely to try to get at it again.
What happens if a Monstera plant is consumed by my dog?
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.
If my dog eats a Swiss cheese plant, what happens?
The veterinarian will make a diagnosis, however it would be more useful if you brought a sample of the plant or a picture of the plant. The poisonous chemical producing the symptoms would be easy for the veterinarian to recognize and evaluate. Don’t assume your pet is healthy just because no signs are visible. To avoid any long-term issues, you should still visit a veterinarian. Give the vet as many data as you can, such as what the dog ate, when it happened, and how much of the plant was consumed. The veterinarian will do a thorough physical examination. This might encompass items like:
How is canine plant poisoning treated?
- Keep your dog away from the plant, please. If you recognize the plant, write down its name or take a photo of it to aid veterinarians in treating your dog.
- Verify that your dog is breathing normally, is awake, and is acting normally. Call your veterinarian or a poison helpline for animals, such as Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or ASPCA Animal Poison Control at 888-426-4435, if your pet has become ill. There may be a consultation cost because hotlines like this do charge for their services. Depending on the situation, a specialist can advise you whether to treat your dog at home or take her to the vet.
- If your dog is acting abnormally, contact your vet or the closest emergency veterinary clinic right away. Avoid using any home treatments or antidotes unless your veterinarian has prescribed them. This involves inducing your dog to throw up. Vomiting may be the best course of action, but depending on what your dog consumed and what is going on within the dog’s body, it may also be dangerous.
Remember, your dog has a better chance of recovering from poisoning the sooner you seek medical attention for him if he has eaten a deadly plant. The treatment will be tailored to the plant that poisoned your dog, whether it be administered at home as per a veterinarian’s instructions or in a veterinary facility. Your dog’s veterinarian may need to conduct surgery, administer intravenous fluids, flush your dog’s stomach, or administer activated charcoal to your dog to absorb the toxin. Supportive drugs may aid your dog’s liver and kidneys in processing the poison and recovering.
According to the ASPCA Poison Control, 25% of poisoned animals recover in under two hours. One in 100 pets who are poisoned die, even with care.
Check lists of poisonous and non-toxic plants before bringing greenery indoors or planting in the garden or yard because prevention is always better than treatment. Both your veterinarian and your dog will appreciate it.
What occurs if a dog eats a leaf from a plant?
- Historically, wild dogs supplemented their diet with plants and leaves.
- The omnivorous progenitors of today’s domestic dogs may have passed on this behavior to them.
- Leaf-eating can be reduced by proper training, close attention, and understanding when to divert.
The air is becoming chilly, the trees are covered in orange-hued leaves, and the temperature is decreasing.
Although you might appreciate the sound of leaves crunching beneath your feet, you might not find it as relaxing if your dog is chomping on a few errant leaves. In the end, since it’s a part of their natural curiosity, it’s not detrimental for your dog to eat a few leaves here and there. However, there are techniques to get them to reduce their appetite for greens if they are constantly eating leaves.
Why Do Dogs Even Eat Leaves?
So why do puppies initially like to eat leaves? According to research, eating leaves is a behavior that is not exclusive to domestic dogs. When they can’t obtain their usual sources of meat, wild dogs have been seen in the wild consuming grass and leaves. Despite not being as nutrient-dense as meat, wild dogs nevertheless consume plants to supplement their diet.
Dr. Andrea Rediger, DVM, a veterinarian, claims that there is a theory explaining how domesticated dogs acquired characteristics from their wild ancestors. According to Rediger, domesticated dogs instinctively include plant matter in their diet since “undomesticated dogs are inherently omnivores (meat and plant-eaters),” he writes in an article for the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Pica, a syndrome where dogs feel compelled to devour non-edible objects, may be a sign of more serious problems. Although your dog may have a natural urge to eat leaves, the practice could also indicate other health problems, dietary deficits, or even boredom.
Although leaves may be high in fiber, they are not nutrient-dense and won’t significantly improve your dog’s diet. Consider introducing vegetables and herbs that are suitable for dogs into your dog’s diet, such as carrots, peas, and celery, if your dog appears to enjoy the flavor or texture of leaves. You might even start a rosemary, basil, and thyme-filled herb garden for dogs.
If your dog is experiencing stomach discomfort, they may also use grass and leaves to induce vomiting and help them get rid of the discomfort. Although technically harmless, leaves and grass can obstruct the airway, especially in young animals like pups. Keep a watch on how frequently your dog throws up, especially in light of how much greenery they are consuming. It can be a symptom of a gastrointestinal problem that needs to be addressed by your veterinarian.
While out for a stroll, it’s dangerous to eat any leaves because they might be sprayed with pesticides or other dangerous chemicals. While the majority of leaves that fall from trees are safe, some hazardous trees and plants, like black walnut trees, Japanese yews, and tomato plants, can give your dog serious health problems. Before acquiring a new dog, take essential to become acquainted with the varieties of trees in your yard and surrounding area.
How Can You Curb Leaf-Eating Behavior?
Even though your dog may view leaves as a special variety of dog potato chip, cleaning up their puke after a feast is never enjoyable. There are a few simple ways to prevent your dog from eating too much fall foliage if you’re worried about the behavior.
When you first let your dog out, make sure to follow them and pay great attention to what they put in their mouths. Give them a harsh warning if they begin to devour a leaf “No, and take out the leaf delicately. Give the leash a light tug if they begin to consume leaves when out for a walk “no, and divert their focus.
If your dog is showing an interest in the leaves, they may be bored and in need of entertainment. Purchase chewing toys or other items to divert their attention from the need to devour the leaves. To challenge your dog’s brain and get them interested in anything other than leaves, you can also attempt food puzzles.
Finally, remember to schedule some time to play with your dog. Throw a ball or another toy to divert their attention if you let them outside and they begin to explore the backyard looking for a snack. The interaction with their owner and the exercise may serve as a diversion from the seasonal treat and help you and your dog form a closer bond.
Do you need assistance training your dog? In spite of the fact that you might not be able to attend live training sessions during COVID-19, we are still available to you electronically through the AKC GoodDog! Helpline. With the help of this live telephone service, you may speak with a qualified trainer who will provide you with unrestricted, personalized advise on anything from behavioral problems to CGC preparation to getting started in dog sports.
How poisonous are monsteras?
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.
Are Swiss cheese plants hazardous in any way?
Clinical symptoms include oral irritation, severe mouth, tongue, and lip burning, frequent drooling, vomiting, and trouble swallowing.