“I think coexisting with another life form is a very rich experience. It’s why people keep plants and animals.” – Susan Orlean. We can’t agree anymore with Susan, right?! Those of us who have pets in our homes would want to grow plants that are safe for them. But, are houseplants safe for cats? So let’s know the plants safe for cats and which indoor plants you have to consider growing in your house.
Plants that are Safe for Cats
Plants give us oxygen, they also function as great air purifiers by removing harmful toxins in our atmosphere. Hence, having houseplants can be very therapeutic. Not only do they add beauty to your house, but they are also great stress busters. Caring for a plant can be a hobby and fun activity for kids too. However, if you have a pet, not all plants can be safe for them. So, which plants are safe for cats? Pets, especially cats, have a habit of nibbling and might ingest a leaf or two. And if that particular plant is harmful to the cat, then your pet might face some difficulty. Therefore, it’s important to install special houseplants that are not harmful. Here are 11 plants safe for cats that are non-toxic and bring beauty along with safety to our living spaces.
#1 Spider Plant (Chlorophytum Comosum)
Belonging to the family Asparagaceae, Spider Plant is an African one. This is a highly common indoor plant for pet owners. One question that most people ask is, ‘Are spider plants safe for cats?’. Well, of course, yes, these are completely safe. Being super easy to grow, this ivy is a veterinarian’s favorite due to its non-toxicity. It also airs purifying abilities and removes harmful toxins present in our living spaces. Also popular as the ribbon plant or airplane plant, this one has similar effects to catnip and produces mild hallucinogenic chemicals. Furthermore, cats are very attracted to this ivy. Apart from all that, safe plants for cats grows in almost any soil, needs less care, and also requires normal sunlight.
#2 Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea Recurvata)
In the search of plants for indoor safe for pets, here comes another option. Commonly famous as the elephant’s foot, this is an ornamental houseplant. It is a native African plant belonging to the family Asparagaceae. Besides, Ponytail Plant is highly popular in Europe. As a bonsai specimen, this palm tree survives indoors with optimum sunlight and some care. Moreover, it does not require a lot of water and can go up to a month without moisture. This is also non-toxic to pets and collaborates well with cats.
#3 Parlor Palm (Chamadaedorea Elegans)
Also known as ‘Neanthe Bella Palm,’ this is a native Mexican plant. It does not need a lot of sunlight and propagates well in the shade too. Parlor Palm needs indirect light, which makes it a perfect indoor houseplant. Although those usual palms can make cats dubious, this one is completely non-toxic. It is also famous for bringing good luck and spreading good vibes.
#4 African Violet (Saintpaulia Ionantha)
This is a tropical plant belonging to Eastern Africa. Considered an ornamental houseplant, African Violet is a perennial plant that thrives in low-light areas. Therefore, it is good for bathrooms and kitchens where direct sunlight is not achievable. Furthermore, Violet being non-toxic is extremely pet-friendly and blooms too. It is low-maintenance, and the flowers are cat safe too. So, you can go with african violet safe for cats.
#5 Gloxinia (Sinningia Speciosa)
Belonging to the Gesneriaceae family, these Brazilian plants are extremely pet friendly. They thrive in indirect light, making them great for indoor planting. However, Gloxinia needs a lot of moisture and requires people to water it regularly. This plant’s blooms are pretty and often used in bouquets for Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. Speaking about its flowers, they are absolutely non-toxic.
#6 Venus Flytrap (Dionaea Muscipula)
This is the most common and popular insectivorous plant. Not only does this insectivorous catch fly to feed itself, but it is also non-poisonous and cat safe. Besides, Venus Flytrap is a perennial herb and needs light irrigation to thrive as a houseplant. However, caring for this plant needs some attention as it needs watering using either distilled water or reverse osmosis (RO) water with moderate sunlight.
#7 Birds Nest Fern (Asplenium Nidus)
This is a fern that belongs to the family of Spleenworts. These ferns are non-poisonous to pets. Unlike other ferns, Birds Nest Fern is safe for cats as they do not cause itchiness or skin infections. Furthermore, this fern is beautiful and looks great in gardens. Moderate sunlight and less water are a few conditions that support its growth.
#8 Money Tree (Pachira Aquatica)
Commonly known as the bonsai chestnut, the Money Tree is an extremely popular houseplant. Besides, most believe that this one brings good luck and prosperity, as it holds importance in Feng Shui. Regardless, this is non-toxic for cats if they nibble on some of its leaves. This plant is a pretty one requiring minimal effort from people. With its dangling leaves and braided stems, Money Tree even attracts cats. Moreover, it is long-lasting and great for pet owners.
#9 Cat Grass (Dactylis Glomerata)
This is a special mixture of plants that pet owners can pick to grow. Typically popular as pet grass, this is a mixture of various kinds of cereal like wheat and barley grown as houseplants. Thus, it becomes a great snack for your feline as it may munch on it as much as it wants to. Additionally, Cat Grass is a healthy nutritive alternative, and it also helps push down the hairballs, lubricating the digestive system and more. It also contains folic acid, which helps with blood flow. Lastly, it is super easy to grow and is readily available.
#10 Banana Leaf (Musa)
This is a tropical herbal shrub. Banana Leaf is very popular among a great number of vets and as well pet owners. Now, one can keep this houseplant due to its attractively large leaves. Moreover, the leaf is soft, contains high fiber, and is non-toxic to cats. Maybe that’s why it is a common houseplant for cat lovers. Banana Leaf requires moderate sunlight and good watering and is easy to grow.
#11 Rattlesnake Plant (Calathea Lancifola)
This is one of the plants that are safe for cats. Unlike its name, this plant is safe for cats. Not only is it non-toxic, but it is also one of the most beautiful house plants safe for cats. Rattlesnake Plant has purple and pink undertones, and one can place it on their windowsills and even inside their bedroom. Furthermore, this one does not require a lot of sunlight and water. Being one of the safe plants for cats, this one is very beautiful and perennial too.
Things to Consider Before Buying Plants Safe for Cats
1. Check if the Plant is Toxic or Poisonous
Houseplants attract cats more than one can imagine. In the absence of the caretaker, they may try to nibble or eat a few leaves and even their blooms. Thus, the plants in your house must not be harmful to your feline creature. So, check if the plant you are buying is completely safe for your cat.
2. Some Plants Might Cause Disorders
Some plants, like Daffodils (Narcissus), English Ivy (Hedera Helix), Lilies, etc., can be poisonous or toxic to your cats. Some of these plants can cause improper functioning of the kidneys and the heart. Some of them can cause skin problems, hair loss, and eczema. Eating a few leaves can also cause an upset stomach or digestive issues.
3. Understand the Plant’s Moisture Requirement
If you work a lot and have a busy schedule, try to go for a plant that requires less water (ferns and palms). Whereas, if you live in a rainy area, opt for a high-water needing plant.
4. Check for the Sunlight Necessity
For those who want indoor plants safe for cats for their bedroom and bathroom, plants that thrive in the shade are ideal. In contrast, people who want a garden plant must contemplate the amount of sunlight the plant will get: direct sunlight (sunflowers) or shade plants.
5. Ensure the Type of Soil to be Used
If you are planting it in your garden, the soil requirements should match your garden soil. Always pot your plant in its specific soil for good growth and care. Or else the attempt will be a failure.
6. Make Sure to Maintain the Optimum Temperature
The optimum temperature for your plant should be under your area’s climate and temperature. Perennial plants are the best houseplants for cats as they last all year at almost any temperature.
7. Understand the Space the Plant Occupies
Do not buy a long and tall plant for indoor planting. If you want a plant for your bedroom or a side table, go for a small one with short leaves and stems that take up a small space.
How to Stop My Cat from Eating Houseplants?
You can also adopt preventive measures to keep your pet and plant safe. Planting high and tall plants which are out of reach for your cats helps. Small plants can be hung remarkably high in baskets and dangling pots that are nowhere near your pet. You can also train your cat to stay away from houseplants. To do this, plant a low pot. Spray your cat with water whenever it tries to go near it. And when it does not go toward the plant, give it a treat.
Conclusion
Lastly, cats may ingest some houseplants. Well, how to stop cats for eating houseplants? Actually, you can train them. As a pet parent, it is your responsibility to make sure that the plant is completely non-toxic and safe for pets. The above-listed 11 houseplants safe for cats with pictures are claimed as non-toxic and cat safe. So, if you wonder what plants are safe for cats, this guide can prove to be helpful to you. These non toxic houseplants for cats are the ideal choices if you want to beautify your house but are concerned about your kitten’s health. These plants can last long with proper care and ideal moisture, soil, and sunlight requirements. With this, your feline will also learn to be one with nature, and houseplants can add to the aesthetic of your house. Be careful not to buy any of those toxic palms and ferns. Happy planting and pet parenting to you with these 11 houseplants best for kitties!