Pet Friendly Houseplants: The Best Indoor Plants Safe for Cats and Dogs
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If you’re a plant lover and a pet parent, you’ve likely experienced that heart sinking moment of spotting a chewed leaf or soil scattered all over the floor.
Cats and dogs can’t resist the allure of a leafy snack or a potted dig, but unfortunately, some popular houseplants are toxic to pets. Not to worry, though there are plenty of gorgeous, pet safe plants to create a lush indoor jungle that won’t put your furry friends at risk.
Here’s your ultimate guide to pet friendly houseplants, complete with everything you need to know to keep both your plants and pets happy and healthy!
Why Pet Friendly Houseplants Matter
Before diving into the plant list, let’s talk about why pet friendly houseplants are so important.
Many common houseplants, like the popular Monstera Deliciosa, can cause mild to severe reactions in pets if ingested. Symptoms can range from digestive upset to more serious health risks, depending on the plant and the quantity consumed.
Choosing non toxic, pet safe plants means you can have your indoor jungle and a pet safe home. So, let’s get started on our journey to find plants that both your pets and plants can thrive around.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Let’s kick things off with the classic Spider Plant. This hardy, easy to care for plant is not only safe for cats and dogs but also a fantastic air purifier.
Its long, arching leaves and adorable baby “spiderettes” make it a visual treat, and it’s nearly indestructible perfect for homes with curious pets who like to poke, prod, or occasionally munch on greenery.
- Care Tips: Spider plants are low maintenance and thrive in moderate, indirect light. They’re also forgiving if you forget a watering session or two.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston Ferns are a beautiful choice for adding texture to your indoor jungle. Their lush, feathery fronds make them a great addition to any room, and they’re non toxic to both cats and dogs.
Boston Ferns can add a tropical feel to your space and help purify the air, which is always a win.
- Care Tips: Boston Ferns love humidity, so they’re ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. Keep their soil moist, but not waterlogged, and place them in indirect light.
3. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
If you’re after a statement plant with beautiful patterns, look no further than the Calathea.
Known for its striking, intricate leaf designs, Calathea is a pet friendly houseplant that’s sure to turn heads. From the Peacock to the Rattlesnake varieties, there’s a Calathea for every aesthetic.
And bonusit’s safe for your pets, so no need to worry if your curious kitty decides to inspect it up close.
- Care Tips: Calatheas enjoy high humidity and indirect light. They’re a bit more sensitive than other plants, so avoid drafts and keep the soil consistently moist.
4. Parlour Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The Parlour Palm is a classic, elegant houseplant that’s been a favourite since the Victorian era.
With its graceful fronds and air purifying properties, this palm is a fantastic, pet friendly option for any indoor jungle.
Its tropical vibe is perfect for bringing some green glamour to your living space, and it’s completely safe for your pets.
- Care Tips: Parlour Palms prefer bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
5. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Similar to the Parlour Palm, the Areca Palm brings a tropical look without the risk to your pets.
This lovely, easy going plant is known for its feathery, golden fronds and is a perfect choice for filling empty corners with lush greenery. It’s safe for both cats and dogs and grows to a substantial size indoors, making it a real statement piece.
- Care Tips: Areca Palms thrive in bright, indirect light and need regular watering. They also enjoy a bit of humidity, so misting will keep them looking their best.
6. Hoya (Hoya spp.)
Hoyas, or Wax Plants, are known for their thick, waxy leaves and adorable clusters of star shaped flowers.
These pet friendly houseplants are a delight for any plant lover, as they’re low maintenance, long lasting, and completely safe for cats and dogs. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from trailing vines to more compact types.
- Care Tips: Hoyas do well in bright, indirect light and prefer to dry out between waterings. They’re generally hardy and make an excellent addition to hanging planters.
7. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
For a pop of colour, the Polka Dot Plant is a colourful choice. This little plant has brightly coloured leaves with pink, red, or white spots, adding a fun twist to the usual greenery.
It’s also completely safe for pets, so your dogs and cats can appreciate its quirky look without any worries.
- Care Tips: Polka Dot Plants prefer bright, indirect light and moist soil. They’re also relatively small, making them a perfect choice for tabletops or shelves.
8. Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)
The tiny, lush leaves of Baby’s Tears create a soft, moss like effect, making this plant a beautiful addition to any pet friendly indoor garden.
It’s low growing, perfect for terrariums, and safe for cats and dogs. Baby’s Tears can also be used as ground cover in larger potted plants, creating a mini rainforest effect that both you and your pets will love.
- Care Tips: Baby’s Tears enjoy indirect light and regular watering to keep the soil moist. They thrive in humid environments, so misting is always a good idea.
9. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
The Friendship Plant is a unique, pet safe option that’s great for sharing cuttings with fellow plant lovers hence its name!
With its textured, crinkly leaves and low growing nature, this plant adds a lot of character to any collection. It’s safe for both cats and dogs, so no need to worry if your pets get curious.
- Care Tips: Friendship Plants do well in low to medium light and prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.
10. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
Prayer Plants are loved for their striking, colourful leaves and their quirky habit of folding up at night.
They come in a variety of colours and patterns, making them a vibrant, pet friendly addition to your plant family. Cats and dogs might find the moving leaves fascinating, but thankfully, this plant won’t cause them any harm.
- Care Tips: Prayer Plants love humidity and indirect light. Keep the soil slightly moist, and they’ll reward you with beautiful, unfurling leaves.
Tips for Keeping Your Pet Friendly Plants and Pets Safe
Even with non toxic plants, it’s still a good idea to discourage pets from nibbling on leaves or digging in pots. Here are a few helpful tips for pet proofing your indoor jungle:
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Use Hanging Planters: For cats that love to snack on leaves, hanging planters can keep plants out of reach while adding some vertical interest to your decor.
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Keep Pots Out of High Traffic Areas: Try placing plants in areas your pets don’t frequent, like shelves or plant stands.
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Create a Designated Plant Space: Having a specific corner or area for your plants can help teach your pets that plants are off limits.
- Repel with Citrus or Bitter Sprays: Many cats and dogs dislike citrus or bitter tastes, so using a safe, plant friendly spray can keep them from munching.
With so many pet friendly options, there’s no need to compromise between your love for plants and your furry companions. From the classic Spider Plant to the quirky Polka Dot Plant, these pet safe houseplants will keep your indoor jungle growing strong while keeping your pets safe and happy.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just getting started, building a collection of beautiful, non toxic plants is a joy that both you and your pets can enjoy together.
So go on, fill your home with greenery that’s as safe as it is beautiful, and watch as both your plants and pets thrive in harmony! Happy planting!
Nath at Oh Shoot! Plants