Is Cats Safe?
Is Swiss Cheese Plant Safe for Cats?
No — Swiss Cheese Plant is toxic to cats.
Swiss Cheese Plant is listed as toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. The toxic component is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many plant and chemical compounds poorly, so keep Swiss Cheese Plant away from your cat and treat any exposure seriously.
| Scientific name | Monstera deliciosa |
|---|---|
| Family | Araceae |
| Category | Plants |
| Toxic principle | Insoluble calcium oxalates |
| Also known as | Ceriman, Cutleaf Philodendron, Hurricane Plant, Mexican Breadfruit, Mother-in-Law, Split-leaf Philodendron, Window Leaf Plant |
Signs to watch for in cats
- Oral irritation
- Intense burning and irritation of mouth
- Tongue and lips
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Difficulty swallowing
If your cat may have been exposed to Swiss Cheese Plant:
- Don't wait for symptoms; don't induce vomiting unless a professional tells you to.
- Note what and how much, and take any packaging with you.
- Call your vet or a 24/7 line now — Pet Poison Helpline 855-764-7661 · ASPCA 888-426-4435.
Other Araceae plants
Plants in the same family (Araceae) are easily confused with Swiss Cheese Plant — check each one:
Cat-safe alternatives
Browse all Plants for cats · or check another item.
Frequently asked questions
Is Swiss Cheese Plant toxic to cats?
Yes. Swiss Cheese Plant is reported toxic to cats by ASPCA Animal Poison Control. Keep it away from your cat.
What are the symptoms if a cat is exposed to Swiss Cheese Plant?
Reported signs include: Oral irritation, Intense burning and irritation of mouth, Tongue and lips, Excessive drooling, Vomiting, Difficulty swallowing.
What makes Swiss Cheese Plant toxic to cats?
The harmful component reported for Swiss Cheese Plant is Insoluble calcium oxalates. Cats metabolise many such compounds poorly, so even small exposures can cause problems.
How much Swiss Cheese Plant is dangerous to cats?
There is no established "safe" amount — sensitivity varies by cat, and small exposures can still cause signs. Treat any exposure as potentially serious rather than waiting to see how much was involved.
What should I do if my cat ate Swiss Cheese Plant?
Contact your vet or a 24/7 animal poison line right away: Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) or ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888-426-4435).