Bringing greenery into your home can create a vibrant atmosphere, but it’s essential to select plants that won’t harm your beloved pets.
While adding plants to your space can uplift your environment, some varieties can be dangerous for our furry friends.
Fortunately, there are many pet-friendly houseplants that can beautify your home without compromising the safety of your cats and dogs.
Pet-Friendly Houseplants
To assist pet parents in making informed choices, we’ve gathered insights from a range of experts, including veterinarians and a medicinal plants specialist.
Their expertise helped us form a list of non-toxic houseplants perfect for homes with pets, alongside tips on which plants to avoid and what to do if your pet accidentally ingests something harmful.
- African Violet
This charming flowering plant brightens any space and is completely safe for pets. - American Rubber Plant
Known for its hardiness, this popular plant boasts over 1,000 varieties, all safe for animals. - Aluminum Plant
Easy to care for and harmless to pets, this plant is a great choice, even for horse owners. - Blue Echeveria
This succulent thrives indoors all year long and poses no threat to your pets. - Boston Fern
With its elegant, cascading fronds, this fern is a delightful and safe addition to any home. - Cast Iron Plant
Excellent for low-light conditions, this plant is not only resilient but also non-toxic to pets. - Calathea
Famed for its stunning leaves, this plant flourishes best in bright, indirect sunlight. - Christmas Cactus
A cheerful seasonal option that can bloom beautifully year after year while being pet-safe. - Donkey’s Tail
With its interesting trailing leaves, this succulent is another pet-safe choice. - Gerbera Daisy
Bursting with color, this joyful flower is non-toxic for pets and perfect for brightening your home. - Parlor Palm
An excellent choice for indoor environments, this palm is safe for both dogs and cats. - Phalaenopsis Orchid
This elegant orchid serves as a lovely non-toxic replacement for plants like lilies. - Ponytail Palm
This eye-catching plant provides a unique tropical flair while remaining safe for animals. - Spider Plant
Not only is this plant easy to maintain, but it’s also a great option for pet owners and those with allergies.
Keeping Your Pets Safe Around Houseplants
It’s natural for pets to explore their surroundings, including the plants we cherish.
Here are some vital tips to keep your home safe:
- Do Your Homework: Before adding any new plants to your collection, check the ASPCA’s comprehensive database that separates toxic plants from safe ones.
- Know the Signs: Familiarize yourself with symptoms of potential plant poisoning, which might include vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy.
- Respond Promptly: If you think your pet has ingested a toxic plant, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately.
Bringing along a sample of the plant can facilitate a quick diagnosis.
By following these guidelines, you can create a safe and beautiful space for both you and your pets, allowing you to enjoy the benefits of houseplants without worry.
Source: Marthastewart