Which Plants Are Safe and Not Safe for Cats?

If you’re a cat parent with a love for houseplants, you may have wondered which plants are safe for cats and which plants are toxic?  Our cats are known for their curiosity, and many will chew or play with anything leafy within their paw’s reach. While some plants are harmless, others can be dangerously toxic and potentially fatal with just one small nibble.

It’s important to know which common houseplants and garden plants are safe for cats, which ones are not, and how to keep your cat safe around greenery.

Why Plant Safety Matters for Cats

Cats often chew on plants for a variety of reasons, including curiosity, boredom, or for a digestive aid. But this innocent behavior can lead to serious consequences if the plant is toxic. Some plants can cause mild symptoms like vomiting or drooling, while others, such as lilies, can result in kidney failure or death.

Understanding the difference between cat-safe plants and toxic plants for cats is vital to creating a safe home environment.

Common Houseplants That Are Toxic to Cats

Many popular houseplants pose a threat to feline health. If you have any of these in your home, it’s best to keep them out of reach and, even better remove them altogether.

1. Lilies (Lilium and Hemerocallis species)

Even a small ingestion of lily leaves, flowers, or pollen can lead to acute kidney failure in cats.  Lilies are highly toxic and should never be kept in a home with cats.

2. Pothos (Devil’s Ivy)

This vine is beautiful and easy to care for, but pothos contains calcium oxalate crystals that cause mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting if your cat even nibbles at it.

3. Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)

If your cat starts chewing on this plant, it can lead to severe oral irritation, swelling of the mouth and throat, and difficulty swallowing.

4. Peace Lily

Although not a true lily, peace lilies also contain oxalates and can irritate a cat’s mouth and cause vomiting.

5. Sago Palm

One of the most dangerous plants for cats is the Sago Palm. Every part of the sago palm is toxic, especially the seeds.  If you cat ingests it, it can result in liver failure and death.

6. Aloe Vera

While beneficial for humans, aloe can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors in cats.

7. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

Mildly toxic, snake plants can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in cats.

8. Philodendron and Monstera

These trendy houseplants also contain oxalates and can cause intense oral discomfort and digestive upset if your cat tries to eat it.

9. Oleander

This outdoor plant is extremely poisonous and can affect your cat’s heart if even small amounts are ingested.

Cat-Safe Plants to Consider for Your Home

Thankfully, there are many beautiful plants that are completely safe for cats. These plants can still bring life to your home without posing a risk to your furry friends.

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Not only is the spider plant safe for cats, but many felines love its grassy leaves. Still, too much nibbling can lead to vomiting simply due to the fibrous content.

2. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Also known as butterfly palm, this cat-safe houseplant adds a tropical vibe to your home.

3. Calathea (Prayer Plant)

Known for its stunning foliage, Calathea is non-toxic to both cats and dogs.

4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Ferns can add softness to a room, and this one is safe for curious cats.

5. Cat Grass (Wheatgrass)

A great distraction for plant-munching cats, wheatgrass is completely safe and can even aid digestion.

6. African Violet

These colorful flowers are non-toxic for your cat and brighten up any space safely.

7. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)

Also known as the reed palm, this is another cat-friendly option with graceful leaves.

8. Peperomia

A variety of peperomia plants are non-toxic and come in a range of shapes and colors.

9. Herbs like Basil, Cilantro, and Thyme

Many culinary herbs are safe for cats in small amounts, making them a great choice for an indoor garden.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe Around Plants

Even with safe plants, it’s best to discourage your cat’s chewing behavior in general. Below are a few helpful tips:

Keep toxic plants out of the home entirely. Don’t take the risk, even if you think your cat won’t be interested.

Use elevated shelves or hanging planters to keep greenery out of reach.

Provide cat-safe alternatives like cat grass or catnip to satisfy their chewing urges.

Spray non-toxic deterrents like diluted citrus or pet-safe bitter sprays on leaves to deter interest.

Rotate toys and increase playtime to prevent boredom, which often leads to plant-chewing.

What to Do If Your Cat Eats a Toxic Plant

If you think your cat has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately. Quick action can make a life-saving difference.

Signs of plant poisoning in cats include:

• Vomiting

• Drooling

• Loss of appetite

• Lethargy

• Difficulty breathing

• Seizures

Final Thoughts: Choosing Cat-Safe Plants for a Pet-Friendly Home

Balancing your love for plants with your cat’s safety is absolutely possible. By learning which plants are safe for cats and which are toxic, you can create a beautiful, green space that both you and your feline companion can enjoy.

Remember, when in doubt, always check with a vet or consult trusted resources like the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants for cats.