As much as we adore our cats, they are notorious for chewing on anything that catches their attention. Houseplants, with their vibrant colors and tempting leaves, are often no exception. While some plants may have harmless effects, others can be extremely dangerous, causing symptoms like vomiting, drooling, or even severe organ damage if ingested.
When choosing plants for your home, it’s crucial to pick varieties that won’t harm your cat if they decide to sample a leaf or two. Thankfully, there are many plants that are safe and even beneficial for both you and your cat. These plants are non-toxic, easy to maintain, and won’t put your feline friend in danger.
In this article, we’ll cover 9 safest houseplants for cats, and how you can grow them successfully in your home.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The spider plant is one of the most popular houseplants, loved for its air-purifying qualities and easy-care nature. Its long, arching leaves make it an attractive addition to any room, and it’s also a great choice for homes with cats.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
Non-toxic to cats and dogs.
While cats may be tempted to nibble on the plant’s leaves, it’s completely harmless if ingested in small quantities.
Growing Tips:
Spider plants thrive in indirect light and can tolerate a variety of indoor conditions.
Water them when the soil feels dry to the touch, and make sure to provide proper drainage to prevent root rot.
2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns are lush, full, and a natural beauty in any space. Known for their delicate fronds and vibrant green foliage, these ferns add a touch of nature to any home while remaining cat-friendly.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
The Boston fern is non-toxic to cats and safe for them to chew on if necessary.
It also offers some benefits to your home’s air quality by filtering out toxins.
Growing Tips:
Boston ferns thrive in humidity, so they’re perfect for bathrooms or kitchens with a bit more moisture in the air.
Keep the soil consistently moist, and place them in a location that gets indirect or filtered sunlight.
3. Calathea (Calathea spp.)
With its striking, patterned leaves, the calathea plant is an eye-catching addition to your home. Available in a variety of species and color variations, it’s a great way to brighten up your space without worrying about your cat’s safety.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
Calatheas are non-toxic to cats, making them a safe plant to have around curious paws.
They are also low-maintenance, which makes them a perfect choice for both novice and experienced plant owners.
Growing Tips:
Calatheas prefer low to medium indirect light, making them ideal for shady corners or near north-facing windows.
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and be sure to mist the leaves regularly to maintain humidity levels.
4. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
The areca palm, with its feathery fronds and tropical vibes, is another pet-friendly plant that brings a touch of the tropics into your home. Its elegant appearance and low-maintenance care requirements make it an excellent choice for cat owners.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
The areca palm is completely non-toxic to cats, so there’s no need to worry about your furry friend nibbling on it.
It’s a slow-growing plant, so it’s easy to manage and won’t quickly outgrow its space.
Growing Tips:
This plant prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Keep the soil slightly moist, but allow the top inch to dry out before watering again.
5. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
The parlor palm is another palm variety that is safe for cats and adds a tropical touch to your home. With its slender fronds and elegant appearance, this plant is perfect for adding greenery to your living room or office space.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
Non-toxic and completely safe for cats.
It’s a great option for cat owners who want a plant that is easy to grow and won’t pose any risk to their pets.
Growing Tips:
The parlor palm thrives in low to medium light conditions and is perfect for spaces with minimal sunlight.
Water when the top of the soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering, as this plant is sensitive to root rot.
6. Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura)
The prayer plant is famous for its beautiful, variegated leaves that fold up at night, resembling hands in prayer. It’s an ideal houseplant for cat owners, as it is safe and easy to grow.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
The prayer plant is completely non-toxic, making it safe for cats to interact with.
Cats may be attracted to its colorful foliage, but it won’t harm them if they decide to chew on it.
Growing Tips:
Prayer plants love indirect light and are best placed in areas with moderate sunlight.
Keep the soil consistently moist and ensure the humidity level in your home is relatively high for optimal growth.
7. Baby’s Tears (Soleirolia)
Baby’s tears is a tiny, low-growing plant with delicate, round leaves that can create a lush, moss-like effect in your home. Its soft green foliage and trailing nature make it a beautiful and safe choice for homes with cats.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
Baby’s tears is completely non-toxic to cats, making it a worry-free addition to your home.
Its small size and trailing growth habit make it a great choice for hanging baskets or as ground cover.
Growing Tips:
Baby’s tears thrives in bright, indirect light and requires regular watering.
Make sure to provide adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
8. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
If you’re looking for a plant that not only looks beautiful but also adds vibrant pops of color to your home, the African violet is a fantastic choice. Known for its colorful blooms and compact size, it’s a perfect addition to homes with cats.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
African violets are non-toxic to cats, so you don’t have to worry about your pet getting sick if they take a bite.
These plants are also relatively easy to care for, making them ideal for busy cat owners.
Growing Tips:
African violets thrive in bright, indirect light and prefer to be kept at a steady temperature.
Keep the soil moist but avoid getting water on the leaves to prevent damage.
9. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
Bamboo palms are another safe option for cat owners, with their graceful, arching fronds adding a touch of tropical elegance to any room. These plants are also great air purifiers, making them a beneficial addition to your home.
Why It’s Safe for Cats:
Bamboo palms are non-toxic to cats, so they’re perfect for homes with pets who love to explore and chew.
Their tall, arching stems make them a striking addition to any space.
Growing Tips:
Bamboo palms thrive in low to medium light and are perfect for shaded areas or near windows with filtered sunlight.
Water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Conclusion
As a cat owner and gardener, it’s essential to choose plants that will both enhance your home and keep your furry friends safe. By selecting plants like the spider plant, Boston fern, and African violet, you can enjoy the beauty of houseplants without worrying about your cat’s health. Whether you want a lush, tropical vibe or a pop of color in your living room, these nine houseplants are perfect for any cat-friendly home.
Remember, while these plants are safe for cats, it’s always a good idea to monitor your pet’s behavior around them. If your cat tends to chew on plants, consider placing them in locations that are out of reach, such as hanging baskets or higher shelves. With the right care and placement, you can create a pet-friendly indoor garden that both you and your cat will love.
Happy gardening!
