The Hurricane Plant, also known as the Swiss Cheese Plant, Monstera deliciosa, or Split-Leaf Philodendron, is a popular houseplant that can be toxic to cats if ingested. While not a true allergy, the calcium oxalate crystals found in the plant’s leaves and stems can cause irritation and inflammation in a cat’s mouth, throat, and digestive tract.
This tropical plant is commonly found as an indoor ornamental plant.
Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, but is generally not life-threatening.
Ingestion can result in mild symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling. Rarely fatal but may require veterinary care.
Eating these plants can lead to more pronounced symptoms like abdominal pain, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. Veterinary intervention may be necessary.
Ingesting even small amounts can cause severe symptoms like organ damage, seizures, or cardiac failure without rapid treatment.
All parts of these plants are extremely poisonous to cats and can quickly lead to death, even with immediate veterinary care.
** Please note: Please note that toxicity level can vary based on the amount ingested and the specific cat. It's always best to keep these plants completely inaccessible to cats and seek immediate veterinary care or call the poison hotline if you suspect your cat has ingested any part of a toxic plant.
If your cat has chewed on or ingested parts of a Hurricane Plant, they may exhibit the following symptoms:
These symptoms occur due to the insoluble calcium oxalate crystals that penetrate the soft tissues of the mouth and digestive tract, causing discomfort and inflammation.
If you suspect your cat has ingested Hurricane Plant, take them to the veterinarian immediately. Your vet may:
A: Yes, the Hurricane Plant is toxic to cats. Ingesting this plant can cause symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, and difficulty swallowing.
A: Symptoms of Hurricane Plant poisoning in cats include vomiting, excessive drooling, and oral irritation. Cats may also experience difficulty swallowing and decreased appetite.
A: If your cat has ingested the Hurricane Plant, seek immediate veterinary care. Treatment often involves rinsing the mouth and providing supportive care to alleviate symptoms.
A: Yes, other plants like Philodendron and Dieffenbachia are also toxic to cats. It is essential to keep these and other harmful plants out of reach of your pets.
A: To prevent your cat from eating the Hurricane Plant, place the plant in an area inaccessible to your cat or opt for pet-safe plants. Providing alternative chew toys and engaging activities can help deter your cat from chewing on houseplants.
A: If your cat shows signs of poisoning after eating the Hurricane Plant, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt treatment is crucial to alleviate symptoms and prevent serious health complications.
The Hurricane Plant, or Monstera deliciosa, is native to the tropical forests of southern Mexico and Central America. It was first described by the Danish botanist Frederik Michael Liebmann in 1849. The plant’s unique perforated leaves are an adaptation that allows light to reach lower leaves in its natural habitat.
In the 20th century, the Hurricane Plant gained popularity as an indoor ornamental plant due to its striking foliage and tolerance for low-light conditions. It has since been introduced to many tropical areas worldwide and has become mildly invasive in some regions, such as Hawaii and the Society Islands.
Please note: The information shared in this post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as veterinary medical advice.
