Houseplants are more than just pretty decor—they bring life, color, and calm to any space. From purifying the air to boosting your mood, these green companions have become a staple in homes across the U.S. Whether you’re living in a cozy apartment or a spacious house, adding plants can instantly make your space feel more welcoming.
But if you’re a pet parent, there’s one important thing you can’t ignore: plant safety. Many common houseplants can be toxic to cats and dogs, causing anything from mild stomach issues to serious health problems. Pets love to explore, nibble, and chew, and even a small bite of the wrong plant can lead to an emergency vet visit.
That’s why it’s crucial to choose pet-friendly house plants. These plants not only look great but are also safe for your furry companions. With the right selection, you can enjoy the beauty of indoor greenery without putting your pets at risk. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best pet-safe houseplants, what to avoid, and how to create a safe, stylish green space both you and your pets will love.
What Makes a Plant Pet-Friendly?
When you share your home with pets, every detail matters—including the plants you bring inside. A pet-friendly plant is one that’s non-toxic to cats and dogs, meaning it won’t harm them if they sniff, paw at, or even take a little nibble. The best source for this information is the ASPCA’s (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) list of toxic and non-toxic plants.
But it’s not just about toxicity. A truly pet-safe plant is also free from:
- Sharp thorns or spines that could scratch or injure curious noses.
- Irritating sap that can cause skin reactions in both pets and humans.
- Strong scents that may overwhelm a pet’s sensitive nose.
You’ll also want to choose plants that have a low chance of upsetting your pet’s stomach. Even safe plants can sometimes cause mild discomfort if eaten in large amounts, so it’s always smart to observe how your pet reacts around greenery.
Common Symptoms of Plant Toxicity in Pets
Even with the best precautions, pets can sometimes get into things they shouldn’t. Knowing the signs of plant poisoning can help you act fast.
Watch for these symptoms:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy or weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Pawing at the mouth or face
- Tremors or seizures (in severe cases)
If your pet shows any of these symptoms and you suspect they’ve chewed on a plant, don’t wait.
Contact your veterinarian immediately or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435). Time matters when dealing with potential poisoning.
Best Pet-Friendly House Plants (With Care Tips)
Looking to add greenery to your home without putting your pets at risk? You’re in luck. There are plenty of beautiful, non-toxic houseplants that are completely safe for cats and dogs. Below are some of the best options, along with simple care tips to keep them thriving indoors.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are one of the easiest and safest houseplants to grow. Their long, arching leaves and little “babies” make them fun and decorative.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Helps purify indoor air
Care Tips:
Place it in bright, indirect light and water occasionally. It’s low maintenance and great for beginners.
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
Also known as the butterfly or golden cane palm, this plant brings a tropical vibe to your space and is totally safe for pets.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Adds height and texture to rooms
Care Tips:
Keep it in a well-lit area with bright, indirect light. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Lush and feathery, the Boston fern is a pet-friendly favorite. It looks great in hanging baskets or on high shelves.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Natural humidifier for dry rooms
Care Tips:
Loves humidity and indirect light. Mist regularly and keep the soil consistently moist.
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea)
Bamboo palms offer a gentle, elegant touch to any room. They grow slowly and are great for filling empty corners.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Air purifying and decorative
Care Tips:
Provide moderate light and water when the soil starts to dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Calathea (Prayer Plant)
Known for its striking patterns and colorful leaves, Calathea is both stunning and pet-friendly.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Leaves move up at night and down during the day
Care Tips:
Prefers low to medium light. Keep the soil lightly damp and maintain humidity for best results.
Peperomia
Compact, colorful, and totally safe for pets, Peperomia plants are ideal for small spaces like desks or shelves.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Comes in a variety of textures and colors
Care Tips:
Thrives in indirect light. Let the soil dry between waterings to prevent root rot.
African Violet (Saintpaulia)
Want flowers that are safe for pets? African violets are perfect. Their soft leaves and delicate blooms are safe and eye-catching.
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Bonus: Blooms year-round with proper care
Care Tips:
Place in bright, indirect light. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and avoid getting water on the leaves.
These pet-safe houseplants prove that you don’t have to sacrifice style or greenery to keep your pets safe. Whether you’re into bold patterns, soft ferns, or flowering blooms, there’s a perfect plant for every pet-friendly home.
Popular Houseplants to Avoid Around Pets
While many plants add charm to your home, not all of them are safe for your furry friends. Some common houseplants can be dangerous—even deadly—if chewed or ingested by pets. Knowing which plants to avoid is just as important as picking the right ones.
Here are a few popular houseplants that should be kept far away from cats and dogs:
Lilies
- Toxic to: Cats (even small amounts)
- Danger: Can cause kidney failure
- Note: Peace lilies, Easter lilies, and tiger lilies are especially dangerous
Aloe Vera
- Toxic to: Cats and dogs
- Danger: Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors
- Note: While great for humans, aloe is harmful if ingested by pets
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Toxic to: Cats and dogs
- Danger: Can cause nausea, drooling, and vomiting
- Note: Also known as “mother-in-law’s tongue”
Pothos and Philodendrons
- Toxic to: Cats and dogs
- Danger: Causes oral irritation, drooling, vomiting
- Note: Very common in homes and offices—watch out!
Sago Palm
- Toxic to: Cats and dogs (extremely toxic)
- Danger: Can cause liver failure and death
- Note: All parts of the plant are poisonous, especially the seeds
Quick Toxic Plant Reference Table
Here’s a simple table to help you quickly see which plants are safe and which are not:
| Plant Name | Pet-Safe | Toxic To | Common Symptoms |
| Spider Plant | Yes | None | None |
| Areca Palm | Yes | None | None |
| Boston Fern | Yes | None | None |
| Lilies | No | Cats | Kidney failure, vomiting |
| Aloe Vera | No | Cats & Dogs | Vomiting, tremors, lethargy |
| Snake Plant | No | Cats & Dogs | Nausea, drooling, vomiting |
| Pothos | No | Cats & Dogs | Mouth irritation, vomiting |
| Calathea | Yes | None | None |
| Philodendron | No | Cats & Dogs | Drooling, difficulty swallowing |
| Sago Palm | No | Cats & Dogs | Liver damage, seizures, death |
| African Violet | Yes | None | None |
By keeping toxic plants out of your home, you’re taking an important step in protecting your pets’ health. It’s always a good idea to double-check any new plant before bringing it into your living space.
Tips for Safely Decorating Your Home with Pets
Decorating your home with houseplants is a fun way to bring nature indoors—but when you have curious cats or playful pups, you need to be extra cautious. The good news is that you can have both: a stylish plant-filled home and happy, healthy pets. Here are a few smart ways to make it work:
Elevate Plants to Avoid Chewing
If your pet is tempted to chew on leaves or dig in the dirt, consider placing your plants on shelves, plant stands, or hanging baskets. Keeping greenery out of reach is one of the easiest ways to prevent unwanted nibbling—especially helpful for cats who love to climb!
Use Pet-Proof Planters
Opt for heavy, sturdy pots that won’t tip over easily. Choose containers with secure saucers to catch water and avoid messes. You can even find planters with built-in covers or mesh tops to keep curious paws out of the soil.
Watch for Signs of Chewing or Nibbling
Even safe plants can cause mild tummy trouble if eaten in large amounts. Keep an eye out for bite marks, disturbed soil, or leaves on the floor. These signs could mean your pet has been snacking—and it’s time to move that plant to a safer spot.
Training Your Pets Around Plants
Teaching your pets to leave plants alone can save you a lot of trouble in the long run. A little training goes a long way!
Basic Obedience Tips
Start with commands like “leave it” or “no” when your pet approaches a plant. Reward them with treats or praise when they walk away. Consistency is key—the more you reinforce the behavior, the quicker they’ll learn
Pet Deterrent Sprays and Alternatives
You can find pet-safe deterrent sprays at most pet stores. These sprays have bitter scents that discourage licking or chewing. Not into sprays? Try placing citrus peels, pinecones, or aluminum foil near the base of your plants. Most pets dislike the smell or texture and will stay away.
With a bit of creativity and planning, your home can be both pet-friendly and plant-filled. By keeping plants safe and teaching pets good habits, you’ll enjoy a peaceful and beautiful living space.
How to Create a Pet-Friendly Green Corner
Designing a cozy green space in your home doesn’t have to be risky for your pets. With a few thoughtful choices, you can build a beautiful plant corner that’s completely safe for your four-legged family members. Whether you have a sunny windowsill or a quiet reading nook, here’s how to make it work:
Choose a Safe Plant Stand or Shelf
Start by picking a sturdy plant stand, tiered shelf, or wall-mounted unit. Make sure it’s stable and out of your pet’s regular path. Not only does this protect your plants from curious paws, but it also creates visual interest by layering greenery at different heights.
Pro Tip: Use corner shelves or ladder-style stands to display multiple plants without taking up much space.
Combine Pet-Safe Plants for Texture and Color
Mix and match pet-friendly plants to make your corner pop. For example:
- Use a Spider Plant for its draping leaves
- Add a Calathea for colorful foliage
- Tuck in a Peperomia for its thick, compact look
Combining different leaf shapes, colors, and sizes adds a rich, vibrant touch—without the risk.
Consider Hanging Baskets (Especially for Cats)
If you’ve got a curious cat who climbs everything, hanging baskets are your best friend. Suspended from the ceiling or a wall hook, they’re out of reach and add a lovely, cascading element to your decor.
Good hanging plant options include:
- Boston Fern
- Spider Plant
- Pet-safe trailing Peperomia
Just make sure the baskets are securely anchored to avoid accidents.
Creating a pet-friendly green corner is a simple way to bring life to your home—without putting your furry friends at risk. All it takes is the right placement, safe plant choices, and a touch of creativity.
Conclusion
Houseplants and pets can absolutely coexist—with the right choices. By selecting non-toxic, pet-friendly plants, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of indoor greenery while keeping your furry companions safe and healthy.
From the playful Spider Plant to the elegant Areca Palm, there are plenty of stylish options that won’t put your pets at risk. Avoiding toxic plants like lilies or pothos, placing your greenery out of reach, and training your pets to respect plant spaces are all simple ways to protect both your decor and your animals.
With a bit of planning, your home can be a peaceful place where pets and plants thrive together. Go ahead—build that beautiful green corner, and let it bloom with confidence.
FAQs
1. Are all ferns safe for pets?
No, not all ferns are safe. Boston Fern is pet-safe, but Asparagus Fern is toxic.
2. Can I keep succulents if I have pets?
Some succulents like Haworthia are safe, but others like Jade Plant and Aloe Vera are toxic.
3. What should I do if my pet eats a toxic plant?
Contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately.
4. Are hanging plants safer for pet households?
Yes, especially for cats who love to chew plants. Just ensure they’re out of reach.
5. Where can I find a full list of toxic and non-toxic plants?
The ASPCA website has a reliable, searchable list of toxic and non-toxic plants for pets.
