14 Houseplants That Are Safe for Your Dogs and Cats

When you have pets, you need to be aware that many common houseplants can be toxic to them. Luckily, there are also plenty of beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are completely safe to bring into your home with pets. We’re going to take a look at fourteen of them.

What Makes a Plant Toxic to Pets?

Plants can contain any of several compounds – alkaloids, glycosides, and oxalates – that can be harmful if ingested. When pets chew on or eat these plants, they can experience symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or even more serious reactions.

What About Exotic Pets?

This list is strictly about cats and dogs. Less is known about how plants affect some more exotic animals, so check with your vet if you have other types of pets. I wouldn’t want to give you any information that was incorrect!

Why Pet-Friendly Plants Matter

Having a home filled with greenery not only beautifies your space but also provides improved air quality. However, ensuring these plants are safe for pets is crucial because even a small nibble on a toxic plant can lead to serious health issues.

By focusing on non-toxic varieties like Spider Plants, Peperomia, and Boston Ferns – along with proper placement and maintenance – you can enjoy a thriving indoor garden without putting your furry friends at risk.

Non-Toxic Houseplants for Dogs and Cats

Now, let’s take a look at some wonderful houseplants that are non-toxic and safe for both cats and dogs:

1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos, also known as devil’s ivy, is a trailing vine with lush, heart-shaped leaves. It’s one of the most popular and easy-to-care-for houseplants, thriving in a variety of light conditions. Pothos is non-toxic to pets and makes a great addition to any room.

Because it trails, you also have the option of growing it in a hanging basket that most pets can’t reach. That’s good if you don’t want your plants getting turned over them!

2. Peperomia

Peperomia is an entire genus of plants. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and leaf patterns. From the plump, coin-like leaves of the Peperomia prostrata to the vibrant, red-veined Peperomia caperata, these plants are all non-toxic and safe for pets.

Plus, it’s one of the easiest plants to take care of. It doesn’t require frequent watering or special treatment. And they’re just the right size for desks, shelves, or small apartments where space is limited.

3. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The Spider Plant is a classic houseplant people love for its cascading, ribbon-like leaves and its ability to produce tiny, plantlet “spiderettes.” This resilient plant is non-toxic and can even help purify the air in your home.

4. Nerve Plant (Fittonia albivenis)

Nerve Plants, also known as Mosaic Plants, are small, low-growing plants with beautifully patterned leaves. Their vibrant veins and contrasting colors make them a visually striking addition to any space, and they’re completely safe for pets.

If you’re someone who forgets to water or doesn’t have time to fuss over plants, nerve plants might feel a little high-maintenance. However, if you enjoy checking in on your plants and creating a nice environment for them (they like it humid), they’re manageable and rewarding because of their beautiful, colorful foliage.

5. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)

The Polka Dot Plant is a charming, compact plant with delicate, speckled leaves. It comes in a variety of colors, including pink, red, and white. This pet-friendly plant is perfect for adding a pop of color to your home.

6. Echeveria

Echeveria is a genus of succulent plants known for their stunning, rosette-like shapes and wide range of colors. These low-maintenance succulents are non-toxic and make great additions to any pet-friendly home.

7. Haworthia

Haworthia are small, compact succulents with unique, often translucent leaves. These fascinating plants are non-toxic and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, making them a great choice for pet owners.

8. Hoya

Hoya, also known as Wax Plants, are vining plants with thick, waxy leaves and beautiful, star-shaped flowers. They come in a variety of cultivars, all of which are non-toxic to pets.

9. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)

The Friendship Plant, also called the Artillery Plant, is a charming, compact plant with round, fuzzy leaves. It’s non-toxic and gets its name from its ability to easily propagate and share with friends.

10. Tradescantia (Wandering Jew)

Tradescantia, or Wandering Jew, is a trailing plant with vibrant, striped leaves. It’s available in a range of colors, including purple, green, and variegated varieties. This pet-friendly plant is easy to care for and adds a lovely, cascading element to any space.

11. Air Plants (Tillandsia)

Air plants are a unique and low-maintenance group of plants that don’t require soil to grow. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they’re completely non-toxic to pets.

12. Calathea

Calathea plants, also known as Prayer Plants, are renowned for their stunning, colorful foliage. These plants are non-toxic and make a beautiful addition to any pet-friendly home.

13. Pilea Peperomioides (Chinese Money Plant)

The Pilea Peperomioides, or Chinese Money Plant, is a charming, disc-shaped plant with round, green leaves. It’s non-toxic and easy to care for, making it a great choice for pet owners.

14. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ Plant is a hardy, low-maintenance houseplant with thick, waxy leaves. It’s non-toxic to pets and can thrive in a variety of lighting conditions, making it a versatile option for any home.

15. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston Ferns are classic houseplants with lush, feathery fronds that instantly add elegance to any room. These plants thrive in indirect light and prefer higher humidity levels, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. They’re completely safe for pets, so you don’t have to worry if your furry friends decide to investigate them closely!

16. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

As its name suggests, the Cast Iron Plant is incredibly hardy and forgiving when it comes to care. It has long, deep-green leaves that lend a tropical feel to your space. Non-toxic to pets, this plant can tolerate low light, infrequent watering, and a bit of neglect – perfect for anyone who’s busy or new to houseplants.

17. African Violet (Saintpaulia)

African Violets bring a splash of color to your home with their velvety purple, pink, or white blooms. These compact plants thrive in well-lit areas but don’t need direct sunlight, making them easy to care for. Safe for both cats and dogs, African Violets are a cheerful addition to your pet-friendly plant collection.

18. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)

If you’re looking for a pet-safe plant that gives off tropical vibes, the Parlor Palm is an excellent choice. Known for its graceful, arching fronds, this low-maintenance plant does well in indirect light and is perfect for adding height and texture to your space.

19. Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia soleirolii)

Baby’s Tears is a delicate ground-cover plant with tiny, rounded leaves that spill over the edges of pots. It’s non-toxic to pets and thrives in bright, indirect light with regular watering. Its trailing growth habit makes it ideal for hanging baskets or as a companion plant in larger arrangements.

20. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)

Another pet-friendly palm is the Areca Palm, which is often referred to as the Butterfly Palm because of its arching fronds that resemble butterfly wings. These plants grow tall and bushy, creating an eye-catching centerpiece for any room. They’re safe for pets and can help purify the air in your home.

How to Choose the Right Pet-Friendly Plants for Your Home

When selecting plants for a pet-friendly home, consider factors like light availability, maintenance requirements, and your personal aesthetic preferences. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

1. Assess Your Space

Take stock of where your plants will live. Does your home have bright windows with plenty of sunlight? Or do you have dim corners that could benefit from greenery?

Some plants thrive in low-light conditions (like the ZZ Plant and Cast Iron Plant), while others need bright, indirect light (like African Violets). Matching your plants to your home’s environment ensures they’ll stay healthy without requiring excessive effort on your part.

2. Consider Your Lifestyle

Are you someone who loves doting on your plants? Or do you prefer hardy varieties that don’t need constant attention? Plants like Echeveria succulents and Spider Plants are low-maintenance options that don’t require frequent watering or care.

On the other hand, if you enjoy creating humid microclimates and checking in on your plants daily, Calatheas and Nerve Plants might be more rewarding.

3. Think About Your Pets’ Behavior

Some pets are more curious than others. Cats especially love climbing and exploring high places, while dogs tend to chew on items within reach.

If your pets are prone to nibbling on greenery, focus on trailing or hanging plants like Pothos or Tradescantia that can be placed out of reach. Observing how your pets interact with new plants can help you adjust their placement or choose varieties that suit your home dynamic.

Caring for Pet-Friendly Houseplants

When caring for houseplants in a pet-friendly home, it’s important to keep a few key things in mind:

Placement: Position your plants out of reach of curious pets, such as on high shelves or in hanging baskets. This will help prevent your furry friends from accidentally ingesting the plants.
Monitoring: Keep an eye on your pets and watch for any signs of chewing or nibbling on the plants. If you notice this behavior, you may need to relocate the plant or consider a different option.
Proper Watering: Overwatering can lead to issues like root rot, which can make plants more appealing to pets. Follow the specific care instructions for each plant to ensure they stay healthy and less tempting to your pets.
Toxicity Research: While the plants on this list are non-toxic, it’s always a good idea to double-check the safety of any new plant you introduce to your home. Some plants can have varying levels of toxicity, so it’s best to be informed.

Bonus Tips for Caring for Pet-Friendly Houseplants

1. Rotate Plants Regularly

Moving plants around every few weeks can help keep pets from developing bad habits like chewing on leaves or knocking over pots. Rotating also ensures your plants receive balanced light exposure for healthy growth.

2. Create Barriers

If you have larger potted plants that sit on the floor, consider using decorative barriers like plant stands or fences to keep pets away. Another option is placing small rocks or pebbles on top of the soil – this can deter digging behavior in dogs or cats.

3. Use Pet-Safe Pest Control

Sometimes houseplants attract pests like spider mites or aphids. If this happens, opt for pet-safe remedies like neem oil spray or insecticidal soap instead of harsh chemicals.

4. Group Plants Strategically

Grouping plants together can create a visually appealing display while discouraging pets from interacting with individual pots scattered throughout the house. Choose varying heights and textures to build a layered look.