If you live with dogs or cats, you already know they’re curious, playful, and sometimes a little too interested in your houseplants. Whether it’s batting at leaves, digging in pots, or outright chewing them, pets and plants are bound to interact.
Unfortunately, many popular indoor plants are toxic to animals and can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, or worse. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up on greenery. There are plenty of non-toxic houseplants that are completely safe for pets, allowing you to create a lush and vibrant home without compromising your pet’s health.
In this complete guide, we’ll explore the best pet-safe houseplants, share practical tips to keep both plants and pets happy, and help you build a safe indoor jungle.
Why Choosing Pet-Safe Plants Matters
When it comes to plants and pets, prevention is key. Even the most well-behaved cat or dog might one day decide your new palm looks tasty. And while some plants only cause mild reactions, others—like lilies, sago palms, or pothos—can be downright dangerous.
Toxic reactions can include:
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Difficulty breathing
- Lethargy, tremors, or worse
That’s why it’s crucial to research every plant before bringing it home, especially if your pet has access to it.
What Makes a Plant Safe?
Non-toxic plants are those that don’t contain harmful compounds known to affect the nervous system, kidneys, liver, or gastrointestinal tract in animals. According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), a plant labeled “non-toxic” is considered safe even if a pet nibbles on it.
That said, “non-toxic” doesn’t mean edible. Even safe plants can upset your pet’s stomach if eaten in large amounts, so it’s best to place them thoughtfully.
Top 10 Pet-Safe Houseplants (According to the ASPCA)
These houseplants are known for their beauty, ease of care, and safety around dogs and cats.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Attractive, curly foliage that naturally trails
- Excellent air purifier
- Grows quickly and is easy to propagate
- Cats love batting at the leaves
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Weekly
2. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- Lush, feathery fronds add tropical elegance
- Grows tall over time—great for floor decor
- Completely safe for dogs and cats
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep soil slightly moist
3. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
- Gorgeous patterned leaves in greens, purples, and silvers
- Moves with the light—leaves open and close daily
- Pet-safe and perfect for low-light spaces
Light: Medium to low, no direct sun
Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy
4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- Soft, cascading fronds
- Loves humidity and makes a great hanging plant
- Safe for nibblers
Light: Indirect, filtered light
Water: Frequent watering, mist regularly
5. Baby Rubber Plant (Peperomia obtusifolia)
- Thick, glossy leaves in green or variegated tones
- Compact and adaptable
- Totally safe for pets
Light: Medium light
Water: Let soil dry slightly between waterings
6. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
- Leaves fold upward at night like hands in prayer
- Unique leaf patterns and rich colors
- No risk for pets
Light: Indirect light
Water: Keep soil consistently moist
7. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
- One of the few pet-safe flowering houseplants
- Beautiful blooms in various colors
- Great for small spaces and windowsills
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Bottom water to avoid leaf spots
8. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- Elegant and easygoing
- Safe and non-toxic for animals
- Tolerates lower light levels
Light: Low to medium
Water: Let top inch of soil dry
9. Haworthia
- A small, spiky succulent often mistaken for aloe
- Pet-safe and great for sunny windows
- Very low maintenance
Light: Bright, indirect or direct sun
Water: Every 2–3 weeks
10. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
- Cheerful leaves in pink, white, or red spots
- Totally safe and adds color indoors
- Compact and best grown in groups
Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Keep soil slightly moist
Bonus Safe Options for a Larger Collection
- Ponytail Palm
- Cast Iron Plant
- Fittonia (Nerve Plant)
- Bamboo Palm
- Swedish Ivy
- Herbs like basil, thyme, rosemary, and parsley (but keep in moderation)
What to Avoid: Common Toxic Houseplants
Some of the most popular indoor plants are toxic to pets. If you already have these, keep them completely out of reach or consider giving them to a friend without pets.
- Pothos (Epipremnum)
- Philodendron
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Peace Lily
- Dieffenbachia (Dumb Cane)
- ZZ Plant
- Aloe Vera (for pets)
- Jade Plant
- English Ivy
- Sago Palm (extremely toxic)
Always double-check with the ASPCA plant database or your local veterinarian before bringing home a new plant.
Tips to Pet-Proof Your Indoor Garden
Even pet-safe plants deserve a little protection—and so do your floors and furniture. Here’s how to keep the peace:
1. Elevate or Hang Plants
Use shelves, tall stands, or ceiling hooks to keep plants out of reach. Cats especially love to climb, so observe their behavior and adjust accordingly.
2. Add Texture to Soil Surfaces
Cover exposed soil with pebbles, pine cones, or decorative moss to discourage digging.
3. Train with Natural Deterrents
Citrus peels, vinegar sprays (used nearby, not directly on plants), or motion-detector air puffers can keep pets away.
4. Give Pets Their Own “Green Spot”
Grow cat grass or pet-safe herbs just for your animals. This can redirect their attention and reduce interest in your decorative plants.
What to Do If Your Pet Eats a Plant
If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten a plant—even a pet-safe one—and they show symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy:
- Identify the plant
- Contact your veterinarian immediately
- Call ASPCA Animal Poison Control: +1 (888) 426-4435
- Bring a sample or photo of the plant for accurate treatment
Quick action can prevent bigger problems.
Final Thoughts: A Safe and Green Home for Everyone
Plants and pets can absolutely coexist—as long as you choose your greenery wisely. With a little research and smart placement, you can enjoy the beauty of indoor plants without worrying about your furry companions.
Start with one or two of the pet-safe options on this list, experiment with styling, and let your green space grow—safely, happily, and full of life.