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10 Safe Houseplants for Dogs & Cats
And easy to maintain
Most of us love having plants in our homes because they can add beauty, purify the air, and create a relaxing atmosphere. However, if you share your home with curious cats and dogs, it's important to choose houseplants that are non-toxic to them. It is very common for dogs and cats to nibble at or even eat our houseplants which is why it’s best to opt for some safe choices.
In fact, some of the more popular plants can be dangerous if ingested by dogs and cats and can lead to anything from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe poisoning. Fortunately, there are many safe, pet-friendly houseplants that you can have in your home with dogs and cats.
Below are 10 Safe Houseplants if You Have Dogs and Cats:
1. Spider Plant
A popular, low-maintenance plant, the spider plant is non-toxic to both dogs and cats. Its long, arching leaves and spider-like offshoots make it visually interesting. It also helps to purify the air, absorbing harmful toxins. Since it's easy to care for and grows well in low light, it’s perfect for pet-friendly homes.
2. Boston Fern
The Boston fern is a lush, elegant plant that adds a touch of greenery to any space. It's safe for dogs and cats, but it does require a bit more care in terms of humidity and moisture. Regular misting or placing it in a naturally humid room, like a bathroom, will keep it thriving.
3. Areca Palm
Also known as the butterfly palm, the areca palm is a non-toxic option that can grow quite tall, making it a statement plant in your home. It's perfect for larger spaces and is safe for pets. This plant prefers indirect light and consistent moisture, making it fairly easy to maintain.
4. Calathea
Calatheas are known for their strikingly beautiful, patterned leaves that come in a variety of colors. While they can be a bit finicky when it comes to watering and humidity, they are completely non-toxic to dogs and cats. Just make sure they have enough moisture and avoid placing them in direct sunlight.
5. Ponytail Palm
Despite its name, the ponytail palm isn't a true palm, but it's still an attractive, pet-safe option. Its long, curly leaves and thick trunk give it a unique appearance. The ponytail palm is incredibly low-maintenance and thrives on infrequent watering, making it ideal for busy dog and cat owners.
6. Parlor Palm
The parlor palm is another pet-safe option, growing up to six feet tall indoors. It's a great choice for homes with cats or dogs that may chew on leaves, as it's non-toxic. Plus, it’s quite forgiving when it comes to light and water, thriving in low-light conditions with moderate watering.
7. Bamboo Palm
This lush, pet-friendly plant is ideal for bringing a tropical feel to your home. It's safe for both cats and dogs and helps purify the air. Bamboo palms prefer bright, indirect light and moderate moisture, but they’re relatively low-maintenance.
8. African Violet
If you're looking for a flowering plant that is safe for pets, the African violet is a great choice. With its vibrant purple, pink, or white blooms, it can add a pop of color to your indoor garden. African violets prefer indirect light and thrive in small pots.
9. Baby’s Tears
This plant has delicate, tiny green leaves that spill over the sides of pots, making it a charming addition to your home. Baby’s Tears are non-toxic to dogs and cats and does well in low light. However, it likes to be kept moist, so frequent watering is necessary.
10. Prayer Plant
Known for its leaves that close at night like hands in prayer, the prayer plant is not only visually stunning but also safe for dogs and cats. The Prayer Plant prefers moderate to bright indirect light and regular watering to keep its leaves vibrant.
Some Additional Tips for Keeping Plants and Pets Safe
Even though these plants are considered non-toxic, it's still a good idea to keep them out of reach from overly curious pets. Ingesting large amounts of any plant material can lead to digestive upset.
You can place these plants on high shelves, in hanging planters, or inside rooms your pets don’t frequently access. Additionally, regularly checking your plants for signs of chewing or damage will help ensure your pets are steering clear of them.
Choosing the right houseplants can help you create a pet-friendly home without sacrificing your love of plants and greenery. With these non-toxic options, you can enjoy the benefits of indoor plants while keeping your dogs’ and cats’ safe. Be mindful of their behavior, and if you notice any unusual symptoms after they've interacted with a plant, consult your veterinarian promptly.