22 of The Best Indoor Plants That Are Safe for Cats and Dogs

Can’t decide what are the indoors plants that are safe for cats and dogs? You will have plenty of choices with these 22 plants below!

There are two things we deeply love in our life: plants and pets. Unfortunately, cats and dogs shouldn’t eat many common plants. When pets consume toxic flowers, they will have seizures, tremors, or maybe die.  That’s why pet parents and gardeners should select indoor plants that won’t hurt our 4-legged friends first and foremost. Also, you will have a step-to-step guide on how to keep both houseplants and pets and what to do if you think your pet has eaten a plant. 

You're reading: 22 of The Best Indoor Plants That Are Safe for Cats and Dogs

In this guide, we are going to proportion a few indoor plants that are safe for cats, puppies, and other animals, from flowers to low-light indoor plants, from hanging plants or vines to outdoor plants safe for cats and dogs.

What flowers are safe for dogs and cats?

Choosing plants that are safe is incredibly important to ensure the protection of your furry friends. If you are both a plant and pet lover, you may be wondering about choosing the right flowers to keep your garden bloom as well as taking care of your pets.

So, no worries as you still have many choices to follow both of your passions. Some examples of cat-safe plants include roses, sunflowers, snapdragons, daisies, orchids and more, but below are the four most beautiful flowers to grow in your garden. 

Rose of Sharon (Hibiscus syriacus)

Rose of Sharon is an adorable flowering shrub with massive, showy blooms. It’s a smooth-to-care-for plant that thrives in sunny areas with excellent drainage. The flora can be white, purple, red, or blue, and they may be cherished via hummingbirds and butterflies.

African Violet (Saintpaulia spp.)

African Violets are famous houseplants recognised for their sensitive, velvety plants in sun shades of pink, crimson, and white. They choose shiny, indirect, mild and nicely-drained soil. They are great for small spaces and can be easily propagated from leaf cuttings.

Venus flytrap (Dionaea muscipula): 

Venus flytraps are fascinating carnivorous plants known for their ability to trap insects. Their hinged leaves with sensitive trigger hairs make them unique. Venus flytraps require bright light and a humid environment. It’s important to provide them with distilled or rainwater and avoid feeding them human food.

Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens): 

Areca palms are graceful, tropical plants that add a touch of elegance to any space. They have feathery, arching fronds and can reach a considerable height indoors. Areca palms prefer bright, indirect light and well-drained soil. They are effective at purifying the air and creating a lush atmosphere.

Low light indoor plants that are safe for cats

Low-light indoor vegetation that is safe for cats are suitable options for people who have confined natural light in their houses. 

When it involves developing a cat-friendly indoor surroundings, it is essential to select low-mild, cat-secure flowers with the intention to ensure the nicely-being of your tom cat companions. 

Luckily, there are several options available that meet these standards. Some of them include:

Spider Plants ( Chlorophytum comosum)

The Spider Plants thrive in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. They are non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them a safe option for pet owners. Spider Plants also produce small offshoots, known as “spiderettes,” which can be propagated and shared with friends.

Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): 

The Prayer Plant is named for its unique habit of folding its leaves at night, resembling hands in prayer. It features attractive, variegated leaves with intricate patterns. Prayer Plants prefer bright, indirect light and consistent moisture. They add a tropical touch to any space. While generally non-toxic to pets, it’s best to prevent pets from chewing on the leaves.

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The Boston Fern is a classic houseplant known for its lush, feathery fronds. It adds a touch of elegance to any space. It thrives in indirect light and high humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid overwatering. This fern is non-toxic to pets and can be a safe and attractive addition to your home.

Fittonia (Fittonia spp.)

Fittonias, also known as Nerve Plants, are small and compact plants with vibrant, veined leaves in various shades of pink, red, and green. They prefer bright, indirect light and high humidity. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. 

Fittonias are generally safe for cats and dogs, but it’s best to prevent excessive nibbling on the foliage.

Hanging plants safe for cats and dogs

Read more : China Doll Plant Drooping: 4 Top Causes and How To Revive Your Plant’s Health

Hanging plants can be an attractive option that keeps them out of your cat’s reach, especially if your pets have a tendency to chew on or play with plants. 

While there are numerous factors that are typically taken into consideration as an excellent concept, always monitor your pets’ behaviors and seek advice from a veterinarian. Safe hanging plants for cats include:

Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya): 

The Polka Dot Plant is a charming foliage plant known for its colorful, spotted leaves in shades of pink, white, and green. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist. Polka Dot Plants are generally safe for pets, but it’s best to prevent excessive nibbling on the leaves.

Orchid Cactus (Epiphyllum spp.): 

Orchid cacti are stunning flowering plants that produce large, vibrant blooms in various colors. They prefer bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Orchid cacti are generally safe for pets, but it’s best to prevent ingestion of the flowers or stems.

Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus): 

Swedish ivy is a delightful trailing plant with small, round leaves and a pleasant fragrance. It’s easy to care for and does well in a variety of light conditions, from bright indirect light to partial shade. Swedish ivy requires well-draining soil and regular watering. It’s considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a pet-friendly choice.

Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata): 

The Friendship Plant, also known as the Moon Valley Pilea, has unique, textured leaves with raised silver patterns. It’s a compact plant that does well in moderate light conditions. Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Friendship Plants are generally safe for pets, but it’s advisable to prevent excessive nibbling as a precaution.

Outdoor plants safe for cats and dogs

 If your cat spends time outside, it’s vital to make sure that the plants in your yard or garden are secure for them. Some commonplace cat-secure outside flora include catnip, catmint, lemongrass, lavender, and petunias. Still having confusion about choosing from these plants? No worries; here are some handpicked options for you:

Jasmine: 

Jasmine is an aromatic flowering vine that adds splendor and a lovely aroma to outdoor spaces. It thrives in full solar to partial shade and nicely-draining soil. Regular watering is important to maintain the soil lightly moist. Jasmine plant life is generally safe for pets, but it is great to save you from eating huge portions of vegetation or leaves.

Christmas Cactus (Schlumbergera): 

It is a popular succulent that blooms with colorful flora throughout the holiday season. It prefers oblique mild and well-draining soil. Water it very well while the top inch of soil feels dry. Schlumbergera is an excellent concept to discourage them from chewing on the plant.

Cat Grass: 

Cat Grass, often consisting of varieties like Dactylis glomerata, is a type of grass that can be grown outdoors in a designated area or in pots. It prefers full sun to partial shade and regular watering. It’s a great natural option for cats to satisfy their chewing instincts and aid in digestion.

Large indoor plants safe for dogs

Large indoor plants can be safe for dogs, but it’s important to consider a few factors to ensure their well-being. Choose non-toxic large indoor plants like ponytail palm, Dracaena Marginata and Money Tree for dogs. Place them out of reach and monitor your dog’s behavior to ensure their safety. Some of the large indoor plants are:

Money Tree (Pachira aquatica): 

The Money Tree is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. With its braided trunk and lush, palmate leaves, it adds a touch of charm to any space. Place it in bright, indirect light and water it when the top inch of soil feels dry. Even Money Tree is safe for dogs, it’s best to prevent them from chewing on it.

Read more: Guiana Chestnut: How to Take Care of a Money Tree Plant Indoors 

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Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata): 

The ponytail palm is a quirky and unique plant that is sure to capture attention. With its characteristic swollen trunk and long, cascading leaves, it makes a distinctive addition to any room. This palm thrives in bright light but can tolerate lower light conditions. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings, as it prefers dry conditions. The ponytail palm is non-toxic to dogs, making it a fantastic choice for pet-friendly homes.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): 

The ZZ Plant is a resilient and low-maintenance plant, making it perfect for busy pet owners. Its glossy, dark green leaves add an elegant touch to any room. It can tolerate low light conditions but thrives in bright, indirect light. Water it sparingly, as it prefers to dry out partially between waterings. The ZZ Plant is safe for dogs and can be enjoyed without worry.

Umbrella Tree (Schefflera spp.): 

The Umbrella Tree, also known as the Schefflera, is a popular choice for its glossy, palmate leaves that resemble umbrellas. It prefers bright, indirect light and consistently moist soil. Water it thoroughly and allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. While this plant is generally safe for dogs, it’s best to prevent them from chewing on its leaves as it may cause minor stomach discomfort.

Vine plants safe for cats

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Are you looking to add some delightful vine plants to your home but want to ensure they won’t pose any harm to your furry companions? Well, fret not, because I’m here to help you out! There are a few vine plants that not only bring a touch of natural beauty indoors but are also safe for your curious little feline explorers.

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): 

Pothos is a popular vine with heart-shaped leaves that come in various shades of green, yellow, or variegated patterns. It is incredibly versatile and can be grown in a hanging basket, on a trellis, or as a trailing plant. Pothos tolerates a wide range of light conditions and can adapt to different watering routines. It is safe for cats and dogs, but ingestion in large amounts may cause mild digestive upset.

Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas):

 Sweet Potato Vine is a fast-growing vine with heart-shaped or deeply lobed leaves in various shades of green, purple, or variegated patterns. It thrives in full sun and well-draining soil. Sweet potato vine is safe for cats and dogs, but it’s best to prevent excessive ingestion as the leaves may be mildly toxic in large amounts.

Swedish Begonia Vine (Cissus discolor): 

Swedish Begonia Vine is an eye-catching vine with deeply veined, heart-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and maroon underneath. It thrives in bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. Swedish Begonia Vine is generally safe for cats and dogs, but it’s best to prevent excessive chewing or ingestion.

Silver Vine (Actinidia polygama): 

Silver Vine, also known as Matatabi, is a climbing vine that produces catnip-like effects on cats. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Silver Vine is safe for cats and dogs and can provide them with stimulating play and exercise.

Read More: 15 of The Best Types of Lily Flowers to Grow in Your Garden

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How to Keep Both Houseplants & Cats/Dogs

To keep both houseplants and cats or dogs, follow these simple tips:

• Check pet-friendly lists: Look for pet-safe plant lists from sources like the ASPCA, a reputable website to choose plants that won’t harm your pets.
• Place plants out of reach: Keep your plants in areas where your pets can’t easily access them, like on high shelves or hanging planters.
• Remove toxic plants: Get rid of any potentially toxic plants that could harm your pets.
• Provide cat grass: Buy or grow cat grass as a safe alternative for your cats to chew on and deter them from your other plants.
• Observe and train: Watch your pets’ behavior around plants and gently discourage any unwanted chewing or digging. Use positive reinforcement and provide suitable toys and activities.

By following these easy steps, you can create a pet-pleasant environment while enjoying the splendor of houseplants in your house.

What to do if I think my pet ate one of my plants?

If you think your pet has eaten one plant, you must do the following:

• Stay calm, so that you can ensure your pet gets the care it needs.
• Remove your puppy from the vicinity: If the plant is near to your pet to attain it, keep them away so it doesn’t devour it once more.
• Determine what plant your animal ate: Take a picture or write down the plant’s name and any distinguishing features. This information will help your vet diagnose.
• Contact your vet: Contact your vet immediately. Discuss the plant and what’s happening. Based on the plant, your pet’s size, breed, and signs of illness, they’ll advise you.
• Watch your pet: Look for signs of distress like vomiting, diarrhea, sleepiness, trouble breathing, or acting differently. To inform your vet, record the time and date of ingestion and any symptoms.

FAQ

To create a pet-friendly indoor environment, consider incorporating indoor plants that are safe for both cats and dogs. Opt for non-toxic plants for cats such as spider plants, Boston ferns, and orchids. These low-light indoor plants are suitable for various spaces and can thrive without direct sunlight.

When it comes to dogs, choose flowers that are safe, including roses and sunflowers.

Additionally, hanging plants and vine plants can add visual interest, but ensure they are pet-safe and placed out of reach to prevent any potential accidents or ingestion. By choosing these flowers, you may create a harmonious living space for each of your pets and flowers to coexist.

Source: https://thelittle.garden
Category: Houseplants