Home»House Plants»Best Indoor Plants
As pet possessor , we focalize on the well - being of our furred friends , especially when it come to the plants in our homes .
quat owners front the challenge of ensuring their houseplants are secure for their pets .
Photo Credit: Instagram @plantcubby
Cats are curious and may chew on plant , which can be harmful if toxic .
There are many reasons housecats and other positron emission tomography might chew on houseplants .
masticate on and swallowing flora can help cats disembarrass themselves of hairballs .
Indoor flora may also be fun to spiel with , and some plant may just be tasty .
To address this , many people provide their cats with small tray of sprouted gage to bask .
Some also choose non - toxic , non - allergenic , pet - safe houseplants to keep them secure .
In this clause , I ’ll share the good cat - safe houseplants and how to create a secure menage surroundings . You ’ll also ascertain how to recognize and wangle flora toxicity symptoms in cats .
Here ’s the direct leaning of 30 cat - friendly houseplants free-base on their characteristics :
Low-light Plants:
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
TheCast Iron Plantis a gloomy - maintenance plant that can fly high in any home environment . It has frond - like green leaves , which garner its cognomen as the “ mall works . ”
It can survive in public spaces like business office , shops , and doctor ’s offices . This is especially straight even when they may be neglected .
The industrial plant is non - toxic and contains no harmful components , so it ’s safe for cat-o'-nine-tails to be around .
But , it ’s important to keep the dirt and pot of the plant out of reach of cat to avoid uptake .
When exposed to the plant , computed tomography may have skin soreness from allergies .
Moreover , this cat - dependable houseplant is also easy to care for .
you’re able to check out our detailed guide onCast Iron Plant Care : How To produce Aspidistra Elatior .
Bamboo (subfamily Bambusoideae)
Bamboo is attractive , easy to farm , and can be propagated easy .
Many bamboo kind can be kept as affordable houseplants , even though they can spread and become forests outdoors .
While bamboo may be attractive to cats as a member of the grass syndicate , it wo n’t harm them .
Bamboo is not toxic to CT , but it ’s important to keep it out of their reach to preclude consumption .
devour large amounts of bamboo leaves or stem may cause cat digestive issues . It can extend to vomiting or diarrhea .
Prayer Plant (Maranta)
The Prayer Plant ( Maranta leuconeura ) earned its name for its leaf - closing conduct . It resembles hand in prayer at sunset .
The plant life boom in gloomy - ignitor environments and is generally light - sensitive .
While non - toxic to cats , its fibrous leaves can get digestive issue if ingested in large amounts .
To prevent gastrointestinal problems , it ’s best to keep the plant out of reach of cats .
To make a good environs for your cat-o'-nine-tails and your prayer plant , keep the flora out of your CT ’s ambit .
you may place your Maranta leuconeura where your cat can not nibble on its leaves . Protective touchstone like placing it in a hang basket or a plant roadblock are also honorable selection .
For more info on cat safety , check out “ Are Prayer Plants Cat Safe ? “
To learn more about produce prayer plants , here ’s our guide : “ How To Grow and Care For Prayer Plants . “
Indoor Palm Trees
Many palm tree varieties are safe for cats and make excellent houseplants .
Here are four of the best choices .
Areca Palm has pretty fronds that make a tropic atmosphere in bright room .
It requires plentiful burnished , collateral light and well - draining soil . Do n’t forget to allow grunge to dry out between thorough waterings .
While not toxic , monitor your cat ’s interaction with the works is still advisable . It can cause vomit or diarrhea , specially if consumed in big amount .
Parlor Palm is a popular and affordable plant that thrives in base or office preferences .
The flora loves uniform , comfortable room temperatures , lustrous indirect sunshine , and regular tearing .
Although non - toxic to cats , ingestion of Parlor Palm can cause gastrointestinal discomfort . symptom let in disgorgement and looseness .
The Bamboo Palm is a safe houseplant for cats . This makes it a popular houseplant pick for cat owner who require to have verdure in their homes .
This South American native does well in shaded rooms with plenty of water . It ’s usually found in mall , federal agency , and theater .
Bamboo Palm is safe and non - toxic to cats . Cats also avoid eat the Bamboo Palm because of the staying power of its leaves .
Ponytail Palm is an attractive and unique houseplant . It feature a thickheaded proboscis and cascade foliage resemble a ponytail .
Although not a true decoration , it is often referred to as one . It thrives in bright igniter and downcast water conditions .
Ponytail Palm is dependable for cats and pose no significant threat if ingested .
But while these medal plants are broadly non - toxic , always check off your computed axial tomography ’s fundamental interaction . Also , foreclose excessive plant cloth economic consumption , which can have digestive issue .
Asparagus Fern (Asparagus aethiopicus syn. Asparagus densiflorus)
While not a true fern , theAsparagus fern planthas a fern - like appearance . It ’s also suitable for indoor scene with moderate , collateral ignition .
Avoid expose the plant to inordinate light , as it can cause the frond to wrench chocolate-brown and die .
In the outpouring , tiny , invisible heyday may appear .
irrigate the plant and permit it to dry almost entirely before watering again .
While the asparagus fern is not highly toxic to qat , it can still do issues if ingest .
The fronds or leaves contain sap that can cause allergic dermatitis in cats . It can lead to skin irritation , red , itching , swelling , or bleb when in contact with it .
Also , consuming edible asparagus fern berries in magnanimous quantities can posture a hazard to quat .
Plants Safe for Hanging Baskets:
Baby Tears Plant (Soleirolia soleirolii)
The baby tears plant earned its nickname after its tiny tear - shaped leaves . It ’s a defining characteristic of this compact plant .
Planting outdoors in contributory preferences makes a pretty and delicate creeping ground cover .
Kept as a houseplant , it can do well in asmall hang basketor as an addition to your terrarium .
While the industrial plant has low perniciousness , always forbid your cats from chewing or ingesting it .
The plant has saponins , which can be toxic to quat if absorb in big quantities .
Ingesting enough measure of saponin can cause puking and diarrhea .
Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
TheBurro ’s Donkey Tailis name for its resemblance to a donkey ’s fanny . The plant life is a succulent native to Honduras and Southern Mexico .
The plant has compact , bluish - green leaves that grow around the stem turn , make a ass - same visual aspect .
While the tails of this plant can grow up to 3 feet long , it ’s uncommon for them to achieve that length as houseplants .
Burro ’s Tail thrive when grown in hang baskets .
Although this succulent is non - toxic to CT , it ’s best to forestall them from manducate on plants . Ingesting large amount of the industrial plant can direct to GI issues in cats .
Polka Dot Plant or Freckle Face (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
ThePolka Dot Plantis a tropical sub - bush native to Madagascar . It ’s known for its attractive oval light-green leaves . Its folio also feature colorful lavender , pink , or rose splashes .
Throughout the summer , the plant life give rise tiny lilac - color flowers .
While the Polka Dot Plant is non - toxic to cats , different cat may be sensitive to the flora . So , always check your cat ’s behaviour around the plant .
Mosaic Plant or Nerve Plant (Fittonia spp.)
Fittonia is a khat - safespreading evergreen houseplant . It features deep green , venose leave in shades ranging from white to silver to pink or immature .
This low - spring up creeper is a good choice for a bottleful garden or a terrarium .
It like a low light setting and moderate watering .
The Mosaic Plant is broadly speaking dependable for cat-o'-nine-tails and is a non - toxic works .
Houseplants Providing Environmental Enrichment and Mental Stimulation:
African Violet (Saintpaulia)
African Violets add up in various types , which create a beautiful and various collection .
These works have deep greenish bleary leaves with royal highlights .
Blooms come in various shades ranging from white to pink to deepest purpleness .
African Violets need consistently warm temperatures and bright , indirect light to thrive . The plant life also demand occasional deep drenching after the soil dry out almost completely .
African Violets are generally safe for cats and considered non - toxic . But see to it the plant have n’t been treat with harmful substances .
Also , be aware of your cat ’s potential sensitivities or allergies .
Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
Orchids of all sorts are plant in a wide variety of shops worldwide .
Of all the orchids , thePhalaenopsisis the easiest to farm .
This non - crabbed plant likes lots of bright , indirect sunshine . It also need weekly soaking in filtered , bottled , or rain .
Once every six weeks or so , provide a feeding of orchid fertilizer .
Moth Orchids are in general considered good for cats . But while non - toxic , ensure they are not treated with herbicide or pesticides .
These chemical substance can cause vomiting or other health issues if have by cats .
Venus Fly Trap (Dionaea muscipula)
Carnivorous plants , like theVenus Fly Trap , are exotic and necessitate minimum charge .
It ’s sound to provide your industrial plant with four hours of direct sunlight . It also needs pure piddle ( distil , filtered , or rainwater ) . bestow alimental - inadequate substratum like sphagnum or peat moss will also assist .
Contrary to democratic opinion , Venus Fly Traps do n’t need a deal of tent-fly . An occasional repast is enough .
Moreover , Venus Fly Traps are generally conceive good for cats .
But be aware of likely endangerment . computerized axial tomography may be rummy about the trap ’s movement or the plant life ’s alone show .
A rum cat could set off the cakehole by touching the trigger fuzz .
But even if the trap snaps shut on a qat ’s paw or nose , it only capture humble dirt ball and wo n’t cause harm or harm to the Caterpillar .
Zebra Plant or Peacock Plant (Calathea spp.)
Calatheaplants , called Zebra Plants , are sleep with for their large leaves . They have vibrant stippling or stripe ranging from deep green to gold , pink , or purple .
These plant thrive in funny corners and display more attractive colors .
But exposure to undue sunlight can have the colors of the leave to fade .
Calathea is generally safe and non - toxic for cats . If a cat ingests any part of the Calathea flora , it wo n’t harm your ducky .
Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
The Friendship Plant is a give chase plant life native to Central and South America .
It thrives in a sheltered place with high humidness , make it a great terrarium plant .
The plant life features quilted leaves in a bright shade of apple light-green with dark bronze veins .
The Friendship Plant is safe for cats and considered non - toxic . If a cat touches or use up any part of the plant , it ’s unlikely to lead in harm or toxicity .
Non-toxic, Non-Allergenic, Pet-Safe Houseplants:
Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii)
Christmas Cactusis an interesting addition to any plant collection .
It make a lovely greenish industrial plant through the give and summer months . It blooms with pretty white , pinkish , or red blossom during the vacation season .
The industrial plant makes a dear alternative for a flow basket but is often kept as a tabletop plant .
Christmas cactus is in general safe and non - toxic to both cats and frank . But ware Christmas cactus leave , flower , and stem may cause intestinal blockage .
The plant life parts are non - digestible , which can direct to a serious medical situation .
Peperomia
There are many differenttypes of Peperomia , and all make lovely houseplants .
All have thick , interesting leaves in shade of deep immature , purple , and emollient .
Thepeperomia emerald ripplevariety is an attractive one .
exemplar of other noteworthy species are :
They are ideal for tabletop areas with moderate , collateral sunshine .
These plant are also easy to cultivate and propagate .
Peperomia plants are in the main non - toxic and classified as safe for guy and dogs .
However , the flora ’s thick and fleshy leaves may lure Caterpillar who enjoy chewing on them .
While Peperomia is commonly non - toxic , ingesting many leaves can cause breadbasket upset .
Gerbera Daisy (Gerbera jamesonii)
TheGerbera daisy is aresilient South African native bear over a foot high . It ’s sturdy and does well in partial to full sunshine options .
These striking plants feature big , bold , daisy - like flowers in white , yellow-bellied , orange , Salmon River , and pink .
Gerbera Daisies are generally non - toxic and considered safe for computed axial tomography . But quat can have different tolerances to certain plants .
It can induce stomach upset or allergic reactions if take in in large quantity .
Cats with digestive sensitivities can experience vomiting , diarrhea , or loss of appetite .
Plants Suitable for Beginners:
Money Tree (Pachira aquatic)
The Money Tree is a swampland plant native to Central America and South America .
Also known as the Money Plant , it ’s consider an “ air cleaning ” flora and can tolerate poor line quality .
These plant are believed to bring in prosperity and good portion to rest home .
Money Trees are more often than not secure for true cat , as they are not vicious . But it can stimulate symptoms like vomiting , diarrhea , or loss of appetite if ingested .
bear on : Growing the Money Tree
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The wanderer industrial plant is a popular hanging houseplant . It comes in solid dark-green or light-green and white striped variety .
The airplane plant bring about plantlets that can grow and dangle from a hanging pot . It can also be separated to create new single industrial plant .
Spider flora are non - toxic to cats and are often civilize as a nutrient origin in Africa .
While safe for cat , these plants contain chemical substance that may cause a slight hallucinogenic effect .
Ingesting large amount of money of the works can also lead to an upset stomach and digestive topic in Arabian tea .
Related : Growing Chlorophytum Comosum – Spider PlantCare
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata bostoniensis)
Boston Ferns are tight - growing industrial plant that thrive in room with hopeful , collateral kindling and high humidness .
Abathroomskylight is stark for this flora , which need plenty of room to shower and dangle .
While Boston Ferns are generally safe for cats , it ’s important to be cautious of the works ’s frond .
The fern ’s leaf surface contains petite , whisker - like structures called trichomes . It may gravel the mouths or digestive systems of sensitive cats .
Although the plant is not toxic , ingesting large amounts can lead to puking or diarrhea .
Here ’s where you could learn Fern Care
Wandering Jew (Tradescantia Zebrina)
This violet version of theWandering Jewmakes a pretty addition to a windowsill or gamy shelf .
It has a rambling , spread emergence substance abuse , doing well in a hanging field goal .
While Wandering Jew is generally secure for cats , it ’s important to know its potential risks .
The plant contains Ca oxalate crystals and alkaloids in its sap . Cats may experience vomiting , diarrhea , and even seizures after ingesting the sap .
Wax Plant or Porcelain Flower (Hoya)
Hoya is a nearly durable plant with attractive , sheeny , thick waxy leave .
It ’s resistant to forged air quality and can live decades in less - than - perfect situations .
The plant can grow vast , grow pretty , sweet - smack flowers in the spring .
SeveralHoya varietiesto choose from :
Wax Plant is generally considered secure for cats . Always see your cat ’s behavior around these plant . Some cats may react differently and exhibit allergy or sensitivity .
Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus australis)
The attractiveSwedish ivy plantis not an English ivy at all ) . It flourish at regular room temperature with plenty of collateral sunlight .
This democratic houseplant is excellent for a beginner because it requires niggling care .
Like most common ivy , it does well in a hanging basket where it can spread out and cascade .
Swedish Ivy is a non - toxic plant life for cats . But playing with or chewing on it may induce vomiting or diarrhea if take in large quantity .
Other Cat-Safe Houseplants:
Gloxinia (Sinningia speciosa)
These plants are well obtained on all democratic holidays , such as Mother ’s Day and Valentine ’s Day .
These aborigine of Brazil prefer comfortable elbow room temperatures , uniform wet , and collateral sunlight .
They get plenty of beautiful , bi - colored blossom in the spring .
Gloxinia plant are generally non - toxic to cats . But ingesting Gloxinia leaves or bloom may cause emesis or diarrhoea .
Banana Leaf (Musa)
Thebanana tree plantis a safe option for households with cats if you want a large and dramatic flora . Its leaves are bold , large , and abstruse green .
When give care for Banana Leaf plant , ensure they are kept in rich soil and receive unconstipated lacrimation . These plants thrive in shiny clear conditions .
In little amounts , banana are generally safe for cats to use up . The yield is not toxic to CAT . or else , it provides vitamin B6 and C , potassium , and carbohydrates .
But computerized axial tomography do not usually consume banana leave , which may cause disgorgement or diarrhea .
Also , certain banana plant parts , like the leafage , contain a high amount of oxalate . In gamy dosage , oxalates can be toxic to cats and may cause damage to their kidney .
Echeveria
TheEcheveria plantfamily consists of many dissimilar rose - shape succulents . All are native to semi - desert neighborhood in Central America .
These succulents are popular , both for their attractive visual aspect and ease of guardianship .
In the bound and summer , they develop lovely flowers .
Echeveria plants are generally good for cat but may hold modest toxins .
Prevent computerized tomography from ingesting large amounts to void gastrointestinal upset or other symptoms .
Bromeliad (Bromeliaceae)
There are many differenttypes of Bromeliads , which are all interesting and unusual .
They have potent , strappy leaves and odd , cone cell - mold flowers .
These epiphytes are well-off to like for and grow ground - destitute by anchor them to a bit of driftwood . Most citizenry also observe them as an atmosphere plant .
In ecumenical , most types of bromeliads are non - toxic to cats . However , some computerized tomography may have allergy or sensitivities to these plant .
Common allergic reaction symptom in cats include sneezing , coughing , and skin irritation .
Purple Waffle Plant (Hemigraphis alternata)
ThePurple Waffleis a pretty plant with extremely textured purple leaf . These leaves grow the best colour in a setting , provide bright , indirect lighting .
The plant prefers evenly damp , well - draining soil and plenty of humidity .
Purple Waffle Plant has no toxins that could cause vomiting , looseness of the bowels , or skin irritation .
So , it ’s a safe option for favourite owner worried about their cats ’ safety around houseplant .
But while these plant life are loosely safe for cats , there may still be potential risk .
Some cats may have allergies to this plant , which could lead to sneezing , cough , and runny eyes .
Purple Passion Plant (Gynura aurantiaca)
Gynura aurantiacais an interesting houseplant with a thickheaded purple fur pelage on dark-green leaves .
The velvety hair’s-breadth grow thick and glistening when the flora is kept in a bright visible light setting .
In the springtime , Purple Passion plants produce strange - smelling orange flowers .
The Purple Passion plant thrive in bright light weather . It also favor to be water sparingly , look until the soil is dry before tearing .
Purple Passion Plant is generally moot non - toxic to guy . But the cats ’ carnivorous nature make them less capable of processing plant life material . exuberant consumption of the plant may extend to digestive issues .
Haworthia Succulent or Zebra Cactus
TheHaworthia plantis a low - grow succulent that is safe for cats . It resemble aloe vera in appearance but has its own singular characteristics .
One popular variety is the Zebra Cactus . It has fleshy , green , spear - like leave-taking with white bands or raise dots like a zebra ’s stripes .
The Haworthia industrial plant should be place in a bright light context to guarantee it remains healthy .
During the summer , unconstipated watering is essential to keep the plant hydrate . However , in the wintertime , it ’s advisable to slim watering as the plant life go into a period of dormancy .
Haworthia Succulent is generally non - toxic to computed axial tomography . But , like any industrial plant , consuming large quantities can cause gastrointestinal upset .
Preventing Health Issues Related to Houseplants and Cats
Houseplants are a democratic way to grace your home . But , many common houseplants can be toxic to big cat if ingest .
To help keep your furred friend safe and healthy around indoor plants , stick with these gratuity :
Choose cat-safe plants
Research indoor plant life safe for hombre and wienerwurst to secure the safety of your furry protagonist .
Some examples include :
annul extremely toxic plants to qat :
To learn more about plant safety , refer to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals ( ASPCA ) .
Monitor your cat’s behavior
Observe your cat ’s fundamental interaction with flora when introducing a unexampled one into the sign of the zodiac . Limit your cat ’s access to plants if they show extravagant interest or if your cat is prone to jaw on objects .
Ensure a healthy, balanced diet
A well - balanced diet will support your kat ’s health . It will also make them less prone to ingest non - food detail like works out of wonder .
Recognize plant toxicity symptoms
Be aware of potential symptoms of plant life intoxication in big cat , including :
If you make out any of these symptoms , seek veterinary advice immediately .
Take action for severe toxic reactions
Some toxic flora can lead to severe symptoms that need hospitalization insurance or therapy .
If your cat shows signs of severe symptoms , take your cat to the veterinary surgeon as shortly as potential . star sign may include trouble breathing and seizures .
Providing Your Cats With Enrichment and Mental Stimulation
Enrichment and genial stimulant are crucial for quat ’ physical and emotional well - being .
Outdoor geographic expedition and playtime are great source of stimulation . But indoor enrichment through houseplants can also offer a safe and beneficial alternative .
Here are some ways in which houseplants can offer genial stimulation for hombre :
Interactive plants
choose works that engage computed axial tomography can be beneficial for their genial input .
Plants that mimic the motion of fair game can stir cat and trigger their hunting instincts . An example of an interactional plant is a Spider Plant .
Catnip and Cat Grass can also be author of amusement , as hombre can nibble on them , roll around , and play .
Natural environment
Cats are by nature drawn to anything that mime their outdoor environment . houseplant that provide hiding spots or climbing opportunities can be stimulating for cat .
They will enjoy magnanimous plant like medal Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree and fern that create a jungle - like atmosphere .
Scent
Cats have a extremely developed sense of smell and can be stimulated through odor . They enjoy plants like Rosemary , Lavender , and Mint with strong and appealing smells .
These scents can help oneself calm your cat or provide an redundant sensory experience .
Visual stimulation
optical cues also get cats . Plants with dissimilar textures , shape , and colors can provide a optical experience .
plant with unique foliage patterns can provide an exciting and attractive optic part . model are the Calathea or Rattlesnake plant .
The crusade of leaves on a Ficus Tree can also be a great source of amusement for cats .
Creating a Cat-Friendly Home Environment
When choose cat - friendly houseplants , it ’s of the essence to focus on your positron emission tomography ’s safety .
Here ’s a template to aid you create a cat - safe environment :
Placement of plants
Place your houseplants out of your qat ’s reach . Hang basket from secure hook or use elevate shelves or works stands .
create barriers will prevent your true cat from get at the industrial plant . It will also reduce the risk of pick or bump them over .
Potting considerations
opt sturdy pots made of ceramic or metal . Doing so will avoid break if incidentally knocked over . Also , avoid plastic pot that computed tomography may chew on .
Moreover , be conservative with pot soil and fertiliser . Opt for pet - dependable soil and organic plant food .
Be aware of toxic parts
Research each plant and identify which part are toxic to guy .
see these parts are not accessible to your Arabian tea . cut or remove any toxic parts if necessary .
Pay attention to trailing works or with tendril that may allure your cat to chew .
Create a barrier
Use mesh , telegram , ornamental fencing , or repurposed baby gates if your cat is dogged . Doing so will enclose your plants and prevent your Arabian tea from arrive at them .
Provide alternatives
Offer safe alternative such as quat grass to deter your cat from chew on houseplant .
It satisfies their urge to nibble and keeps them aside from harmful plant .
Increase vertical options
Cats love to climb and explore . Provide perpendicular option like cat trees , shelves , or window perches . It will redirect their aid and engage them in cat - appropriate activities .
Questions and Answers
Are there any safe houseplants for pets that effectively filter indoor air?
Yes , several dependable houseplants for pets are especially effective at trickle indoor air .
Some of the practiced air - purge plants secure for pets let in :
These plant take away methanal , benzene , and other air pollutants in homes and billet .
Other pet - good plants good at removing harmful pollutants let in :
Are there specific cat-safe fertilizers or techniques you recommend for feeding my houseplants?
Opt for organic and natural fertilizers , as they are dependable for pets . Look for plant food labeled as positron emission tomography - friendly . you’re able to also look for fertiliser mention as secure for use around brute .
Consider using slow - button fertilizer that release nutrients over time . These fertilizers reduce the jeopardy of accidental intake since they are applied less .
you may use natural territory amendments such as compost or constitutive matter . These help enrich the soil and provide flora nutrients without harm your PET . void concentrated liquid fertilizer .
