Are Monstera Plants Toxic to Dogs? A Complete Guide for Pet Owners

Monstera plants have become increasingly popular houseplants in recent years. Their large, unique leaves add a tropical flair to any space. However, many dog owners have questions about monstera plant toxicity when pets are in the home. Are these trendy houseplants safe for dogs? Let’s explore the facts.

An Overview of Monstera Toxicity for Dogs

The short answer is yes monstera plants are toxic for dogs. All parts of the monstera plant, including the leaves stems, and roots, contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If chewed or ingested, these crystals can cause oral irritation, excessive drooling, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, and gastrointestinal upset in dogs.

Thankfully, most cases of monstera poisoning in dogs are not fatal. The irritation caused by the oxalate crystals typically prevents dogs from consuming large amounts. However, it’s still extremely important to keep monstera plants away from curious canines. Even chewing a small amount can lead to painful symptoms.

How Monstera Plants Affect Dogs

The specific toxins in monstera plants that are dangerous for dogs are:

• Calcium oxalate crystals Sharp, needle-like crystals that cause irritation, swelling, and discomfort when ingested They are present in all parts of the monstera plant

• Insoluble oxalates: Compounds that can cause oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, and gastrointestinal issues.

Consuming any part of a monstera plant can cause almost immediate irritation and pain in a dog’s mouth and throat. Other common symptoms include:

• Excessive drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Swollen tongue, lips, mouth
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing (in severe cases)

In mild cases, these symptoms often subside within 24-48 hours. It’s still critical to seek veterinary care, as severe oxalate poisoning can cause kidney failure in rare cases. Immediate veterinary treatment greatly improves outcomes.

Preventing Monstera Toxicity in Dogs

While monstera plants are toxic for dogs, you can take some simple precautions to keep your pets safe:

• Place monstera plants out of reach of dogs – use high shelves, hanging baskets, or plant stands.

• Keep dogs confined away from monstera plants when unsupervised

• Remove and discard fallen leaves immediately.

• Use citrus peels or scents to deter dogs away from plants.

• Train dogs using positive reinforcement to avoid monstera plants.

• Provide plenty of alternative toys and activities for dogs to prevent boredom.

• Opt for non-toxic dog-friendly plants instead of monstera. Spider plants, Boston ferns, and parlor palms are great choices.

With proper precautions, monstera plants can be kept in dog households safely. But supervision is key, and removing access prevents any accidental ingestion.

What to Do if Your Dog Ingests a Monstera Plant

If you believe your dog has eaten any part of a monstera plant, remain calm but act quickly. Here are some steps to take:

• Immediately call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for guidance.

• Remove any remaining plant parts from your dog’s mouth using a clean cloth or towel. Avoid using your fingers.

• Do not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so.

• Encourage your dog to drink water to help flush out toxins.

• Monitor your dog closely for symptoms of oral irritation, drooling, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing. These may take 2-12 hours to appear.

• Get your dog veterinary care as soon as possible for evaluation and treatment. Decontamination and medications may be used.

• Be prepared to provide details about when and how much of the plant was ingested.

With prompt veterinary treatment, most dogs recover fully from monstera poisoning. But don’t attempt to treat it yourself – seek professional veterinary help. Timely care improves your dog’s prognosis significantly.

Identifying Monstera Plants

Knowing what a monstera plant looks like can help you keep your dog safe. Here are some key identification features:

• Large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves with signature splits and holes.

• Green leaves, often with white marbling or variegation.

• Long trailing vines or climbing stems.

• Leaves alternate up the stem and can grow over 3 feet long.

• Thick green stems with nodes where leaves emerge.

• Distinctive aerial roots that resemble ropes.

• Mature monstera deliciosa plants produce edible fruit that tastes like pineapple.

Some common monstera species to watch for are Monstera deliciosa, Monstera adansonii, Monstera siltepecana, and Monstera obliqua. It’s best to avoid all species, or ensure they stay out of paw’s reach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are monstera plants deadly for dogs?

In most cases, monstera plant poisoning is not deadly for dogs unless massive quantities are consumed. But all parts of the monstera plant are toxic and can cause significant pain, oral injury, and other dangerous symptoms in dogs.

What if my dog only chewed a leaf but didn’t swallow it?

Even chewing on a monstera plant leaf can cause oral irritation, drooling, and swelling. The oxalate crystals only need minimal contact with tissue to cause reactions. Seek veterinary care even if you don’t believe your dog has swallowed any plant parts. Oral irritation warrants medical treatment.

Can dogs safely eat monstera fruit?

No. While the ripe fruit of monstera deliciosa is edible for humans, it should be kept away from dogs, as the unripe fruit can contain oxalate crystals. The flesh, seeds, and any other part of a monstera fruit should be considered unsafe for canine consumption.

How can I make my monstera plant taste bad to dogs?

Try using bitter lemon spray, citrus peels, vinegar, or commercial anti-chew sprays around the base of the plant and the pots. These strong tastes and smells can deter dog chewing. But supervision is still required in case they are still tempted to sample the plant.

What plants are safe for dogs?

Some great pet-friendly houseplant options include philodendrons, spider plants, pilea peperomioides, hoya plants, parlor palms, pothos, orchids, and dracaena. Always double check if you’re unsure, as toxicity varies between plant species.

The Bottom Line

While monstera plants can’t be considered safe for dogs, with proper precautions, it is possible to keep both happy houseplants and pets in your home. Be vigilant, restrict access, and train your dog to avoid monstera plants. If ingestion occurs, veterinary care is crucial. With some care, you can safely have both beautiful monsteras and beloved canine companions in your house.