As a pet owner, you probably already know the joy of having houseplants around, but also the challenge of making sure they’re safe for your furry friends. Cats and dogs are naturally curious creatures, and it’s not unusual for them to explore your plants by chewing on the leaves or digging in the soil. But what if you could have the best of both worlds—gorgeous greenery and peace of mind knowing your pets are safe? In this post, I’ll introduce you to a variety of pet-friendly houseplants that will make your home even more beautiful without the risk of harm to your pets.
Why Pet-Safe Plants Matter
As much as we love our plants, some of them can be downright dangerous to our pets. Plants like lilies, azaleas, and philodendrons may look stunning, but they’re toxic to dogs and cats. Poisoning can happen when pets nibble on leaves, stems, or flowers, leading to symptoms like vomiting, drooling, and lethargy. This is why knowing which houseplants are safe for pets is crucial for any pet-friendly household. Fortunately, there are many options available that are both beautiful and safe for your four-legged companions.
Top Pet-Friendly Houseplants
When it comes to pet-friendly houseplants, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. Below are some of the most popular and safe choices for your home.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Not only is the Spider Plant an air purifier, but it’s also safe for both cats and dogs. This plant is easy to care for and perfect for beginners. Just place it in a bright spot with indirect sunlight and water it when the soil feels dry.
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Known for its lush fronds, the Boston Fern adds a touch of elegance to any space. It’s non-toxic to pets and thrives in high humidity, making it ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. Keep it in indirect light and water it regularly.
- Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The Areca Palm offers a tropical look and is entirely safe for both cats and dogs. This plant grows well in bright, indirect light and requires only occasional watering.Image prompt: An Areca Palm placed in a large decorative pot in the corner of a living room. - Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
With its stunning patterned leaves, the Prayer Plant is as safe for pets as it is beautiful. This plant loves low to medium light and needs consistent moisture to keep its leaves vibrant.
- Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
If you’re looking for a plant that’s both easy to care for and safe for pets, look no further than the Bamboo Palm. It thrives in low light and is excellent for purifying the air. It’s also non-toxic to pets, making it a great addition to homes with cats and dogs.
- Calathea (Calathea spp.)
With its striking, patterned leaves, the Calathea plant will brighten up any room. It’s pet-friendly, too, so you don’t have to worry about your furry friend getting into trouble. Just give it indirect light and keep the soil moist. - African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)
These delicate plants come in a variety of colors and are safe for both cats and dogs. African Violets prefer indirect light and should be watered carefully to avoid getting the leaves wet. They’re perfect for brightening up any room with their vibrant flowers.
- Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
The Friendship Plant is another pet-friendly option with soft, textured leaves and a unique appearance. It thrives in bright, indirect light and requires moderate watering. It’s perfect for adding some charm to your space. - Peperomia (Peperomia spp.)
Peperomias are known for their attractive, waxy leaves and compact size, making them a great choice for small spaces. They’re also non-toxic to pets and require minimal care—just indirect light and occasional watering. - Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The Parlor Palm is a beautiful, low-maintenance plant that’s safe for pets. It thrives in low to medium light and doesn’t require much water. This palm adds a touch of greenery to any room, making it perfect for homes with pets.
My favorite pet-safe houseplants are orchids. For a while, every time I went shopping, I “treated” myself with one. Orchids are the only houseplants I currently have because they are pretty forgiving when it comes to taking care of them and my cats aren’t interested in them.
For more information, check out this post: ASPCA: Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants
How to Choose the Right Pet-Friendly Houseplants
When selecting pet-friendly houseplants, consider your pet’s habits. If your pet loves to chew on leaves, opt for plants with tougher, prickly leaves or plants that are less tempting. If your pet likes to dig, go for plants that thrive in hanging baskets or high-up shelves. Think about the lighting and humidity in your home, too. Some plants prefer more sunlight and moisture than others, so make sure you choose plants that fit the conditions in your space.
How to Keep Your Pet-Safe Houseplants Healthy
Once you’ve chosen your pet-friendly houseplants, you’ll want to keep them in top condition. Here are some tips for maintaining your plants and keeping them thriving:
- Watering: Make sure to water your plants regularly, but be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
- Sunlight: Most of these plants prefer bright, indirect light, so try to place them near a window that gets plenty of natural light but avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.
- Cleaning: Dust the leaves every now and then to ensure your plants are getting the proper amount of light. Clean the pots as well to prevent any mold buildup.
- Pet-Proofing: Keep your plants out of reach of pets who like to chew on greenery. Consider using plant stands, hanging baskets, or placing plants on shelves that your pets can’t access.
Recommended Products
As you start filling your home with beautiful, pet-safe greenery, consider these helpful products to keep both your plants and your pets happy and healthy. From plant care essentials to pet deterrents, here are some great options to enhance your indoor gardening experience:
1. Watering Can for Easy Care
Proper watering is essential for keeping your plants healthy, and a stylish watering can makes the task more enjoyable. This ergonomic watering can is designed for easy handling and precision pouring—perfect for all your pet-friendly plants. Shop the Ergonomic Watering Can here
2. Organic Plant Fertilizer
Help your plants thrive with an organic plant fertilizer that promotes healthy growth without the use of harsh chemicals. It’s safe for your pets, and it’ll give your plants the nutrients they need to flourish. Shop Organic PlantFertilizer here
3. Decorative Plant Stand
Keep your plants out of your pets’ reach with a beautiful decorative plant stand. This sturdy stand elevates your plants while adding a touch of style to your home. Shop Plant Stands here
4. Humidifier for Tropical Plants
Many pet-safe plants love humidity, and a quality humidifier can help maintain the perfect environment for them. This one is designed to provide consistent moisture for both your plants and your indoor air. Shop Humidifiers here
5. Pet-Safe Plant Deterrent Spray
If your pets are prone to nibbling on your plants, this pet-safe deterrent spray will keep them away without harming the plants. It’s an easy solution to protect both your greenery and your pets. Shop Pet-Safe Deterrent Spray here
6. Non-Toxic Plant Care Kit
This non-toxic plant care kit includes all the essentials for plant maintenance, such as organic pest control, plant food, and tools to keep your plants looking their best. Shop the Non-Toxic Plant Care Kit here
Conclusion
With so many pet-friendly houseplants to choose from, it’s easy to bring a touch of nature into your home without compromising your pet’s safety. From the easy-care spider plant to the elegant Boston fern, these plants not only add beauty to your space but are also safe for your furry companions. Take some time to choose the right plants for your home and make sure they’re placed in areas that keep both your pets and plants happy.
Got a favorite pet-safe plant? Share it with us in the comments!
