If you’re both a plant lover and a pet owner, you know how tempting it is to fill your space with lush greenery while also ensuring your furry friends are safe. Many common houseplants can pose serious health risks for dogs and cats, but thankfully, there are plenty of safe options that will keep your indoor garden thriving and your pets happy and healthy. In this post, we’ll highlight some of the best pet-friendly houseplants and warn you about the ones to avoid.
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Safe Houseplants for Pets
Known for its long, arching leaves and ease of care, the spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is a favorite for pet owners. It’s non-toxic to both cats and dogs, and as a bonus, it’s also great at purifying indoor air. Spider plants are also resilient, making them an excellent choice for first-time plant parents.
The Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) is a lush, low-maintenance plant that’s safe for your pets. Its feathery fronds add a natural aesthetic to any room, and its non-toxicity means curious cats or nibbling dogs won’t face any harm if they take a taste. Ferns love humidity, so consider placing yours in a bathroom or misting it regularly.
Also known as the butterfly or bamboo palm, the areca palm (Dypsis lutescens) is a pet-friendly tropical plant that can grow beautifully indoors. Not only does it bring a touch of the tropics to your home, but it’s also one of the best air-purifying plants. Be sure to place it in a bright spot, as it prefers indirect light.
4. Calathea
Calathea plants are known for their beautiful, patterned leaves, which are safe for both cats and dogs. With various species to choose from, such as the zebra plant (Calathea zebrina) or rattlesnake plant (Calathea lancifolia), you’ll have plenty of vibrant, pet-safe options to choose from. Just remember that Calatheas prefer a humid environment and need regular watering.
5. Ponytail Palm
Although it looks like a palm, the ponytail palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) is actually a succulent that’s both stylish and safe for pets. This low-maintenance plant loves bright light and only needs to be watered sparingly, making it an ideal option for busy pet owners.
Houseplants to Avoid
Aloe Vera
While aloe vera is a popular plant known for its healing properties, it’s toxic to pets. The gel inside can cause vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhea if ingested by cats or dogs. If you love aloe, consider placing it somewhere out of reach, or opt for a different healing plant that’s safer for pets, such as a snake plant. Click here to view plant.Philodendron
Philodendrons are popular indoor plants due to their hardy nature, but unfortunately, they contain calcium oxalate crystals that can irritate pets’ mouths, throats, and stomachs if ingested. Symptoms of philodendron poisoning include drooling, swelling, and difficulty swallowing, so it’s best to avoid this plant if you have pets. Click here to view plant.Monstera
Known for its iconic split leaves, the monstera (Monstera deliciosa) is a staple in many homes but is also toxic to pets. Like philodendrons, monstera plants contain calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling if ingested. This popular houseplant is best kept away from curious cats and dogs. Click here to view plant.Sago Palm
The sago palm (Cycas revoluta) is highly toxic to pets, particularly dogs, and ingestion can be fatal. All parts of the plant contain cycasin, a toxin that can cause severe liver failure if ingested, so it’s best to avoid this plant altogether if you have pets in your household. Click here to view plant.Pothos
Also known as devil’s ivy, pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is easy to care for and grows quickly, but it’s also toxic to pets. The plant’s leaves and stems contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which can cause mouth irritation, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing if ingested. Click here to view plant.
Tips for Keeping Your Pets Safe Around Houseplants
- Placement is Key: Even with pet-safe plants, it’s a good idea to place them on shelves or in hanging planters if your pets are inclined to nibble.
Train and Redirect: If your pets are prone to chewing on plants, train them to avoid your plants by redirecting their attention with safe chew toys or treats.
Choose Pet-Safe Fertilizers: Some fertilizers can be toxic to pets, so choose organic, pet-safe fertilizers for indoor plants.
