Pet-safe houseplants: what to buy if you have cats or dogs
Want greenery without risking your cat or dog’s health? This guide explains what “pet-safe” really means, how to verify a plant before you buy it, and the best non-toxic houseplants (plus common plants to avoid—like true
Houseplants and cats and dogs can totally coexist—but you’ll have the best luck (and the fewest nightmares) when you shop smart. In this guide, you’ll learn how to confirm that a plant is actually non-toxic, what to buy if you want pet-safe picks, what to steer clear of (especially if you have cats), and how best to set up your plants so that your curious companions won’t take a big bite.
TL;DR
- Use the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database to check safety by name (scarily, not by store signage)—preferably by scientific name. (aspca.org)
- “Non-toxic” does not equal “safe to consume”—even safe plants can cause mild vomiting/diarrhea if Buster is chomping them. (aspca.org)
- Go-to best bets for pet-safe plants: spider plant, parlor palm, areca palm, calathea/prayer plant, peperomia, Boston fern, African violet, Phalaenopsis orchid, hoya (wax plant), Christmas cactus, and many bromeliads. (aspca.org)
- If you have cats: avoid true lilies and daylilies completely—pollen and even vase water are dangerous. (fda.gov)
- Hidden hazards: fertilizers (especially meal-based blends) and certain essential oils/diffusers can still harm pets with plants that are safe. (petpoisonhelpline.com)
What “pet safe” really means (and what it doesn’t)
When people describe a plant as “pet safe,” they generally mean it’s on the non-toxic list for cats and/or dogs. But even non-toxic plants can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if your pet ingests enough of the plant. The ASPCA’s plant database clearly states that chewing or swallowing plant material can cause vomiting or GI upset in cats and dogs. (aspca.org)
Also, “pet safe” isn’t a promise that every cultivar/hybrid has been tested, that the plant is free of toxic pesticides, or that your pet won’t react. Think of it as risk reduction—not immunity.
Before you buy: a quick pet-safe plant checklist
- Get the exact plant name. If you just see a vague description on the pot tag (like “tropical foliage”), ask your retailer for the full common name and (ideally) the scientific name.
- Verify in a trusted database. The ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database is widely used; search by name and double-check the listing against a plant you have in hand. (aspca.org)
- Watch for potentially confusing common names. Most obvious, “lily”—there are extremely cat-toxic true lilies, but plants that merely have “lily” in their common name (some of which are still toxic, just in different ways). (fda.gov)
- Assume chewing is possible. Cats climb. Dogs know how to counter-surf. If it can be climbed or knocked down once, it will be at some time—plan placement accordingly.
- Treat the first two weeks as a testing period. Buy the plant, put it out of reach, and see if it proves attractive to your pet. (A plant that’s “safe” can still become a daily stomach-upset trigger if it’s a favorite snack.)
Best pet-safe houseplants to buy (cats and dogs)
The plants below are listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs in the ASPCA database pages cited. Your goal isn’t just “non-toxic,” though—it’s choosing plants that also fit your light, watering style, and your pet’s habits.
| Plant (common name) | Why it’s a good pet-home pick | Care snapshot (simple) | Placement tip for pets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) | Hard to kill, looks great in hanging planters; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Bright indirect to medium light; water when top soil dries. | Hang it or place it on a tall shelf—cats often love batting the long leaves. (aspca.org) |
| Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans) | Classic “soft fronds” look; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Medium/low indirect light; let top inch dry; avoid soggy soil. | Good floor plant option if your dog isn’t a chewer; use a heavy pot to prevent tipping. (aspca.org) |
| Areca palm (Dypsis lutescens) | Bigger, brighter “palm” vibe; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Bright indirect light; keep evenly moist but not waterlogged. | Choose a wide, stable planter—dogs can bump tall palms. (aspca.org) |
| Calathea (Calathea spp.) | Beautiful patterned leaves; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Medium indirect light; higher humidity helps; don’t let it dry out completely. | If your cat (or dog) chews leaves, move it higher—Calatheas shred easily. (aspca.org) |
| Prayer plant (see ASPCA as Calathea insignis) | Patterned foliage, non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Medium indirect light; evenly moist soil; appreciates humidity. | A great “coffee table plant,” of you can be sure your pet ignores plants. (aspca.org) |
| Peperomia (ex: Hoya-like compact leaves, trailing types) | Great for shelves; generally slower growing and fairly easy to control; non-toxic. | Medium to bright indirect light; allow partial dry-down between waterings. | Use on a bookshelf to keep nibbling to a minimum. (aspca.org) |
| Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata ‘bostoniensis’) | Classic fern look; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Bright indirect light; consistent moisture; likes humidity. | Best in a hanging basket (fern fronds are very tempting “toys”). (aspca.org) |
| African violet (Saintpaulia spp.) | Compact flowering plant; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Bright indirect light; water from the bottom to avoid spotting on the leaves. | Excellent for a windowsill that pets can’t access. (aspca.org) |
| Phalaenopsis orchid (moth orchid) | Lovely flowers; non-toxic to cats and dogs, at least for this common orchid genus. | Bright indirect light; water when bark is nearly dry. Don’t allow to sit in water. | Consider also a room where pets can’t lick potting bark or knock the pot. (aspca.org) |
| Hoya / wax plant (Hoya carnosa) | Tough, trailing plant; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Bright indirect light; let dry more than most tropicals. | Train it up a trellis to keep dangling vines away from playful cats. |
| Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera bridgesii) | Seasonal blooms; non-toxic to cats and dogs. | Bright indirect light; water when partly dry; dislikes constant sogginess. | Place on a high plant stand—segments snap if pets paw at it. |
| Bromeliads (ex: Neoregalia spp.) | Bold color; many do well indoors; non-toxic to cats and dogs (for this entry). | Bright indirect light; keep central “cup” fresh and clean; don’t overwater soil. | Keep away from rough play—stiff leaves can be damaged. |
If you want one “starter” combo:
- Low-to-medium light home: parlor palm + peperomia + African violet (if you have a bright window).
- Bright indirect light home: spider plant + calathea + Phalaenopsis orchid.
- “I forget to water” home: hoya + peperomia (both tolerate some dry time better than ferns).
Common houseplants to avoid (or treat as high-risk) with cats or dogs
Many popular “beginner plants” are toxic—sometimes mildly, sometimes severely. The safest approach (especially with chewers) is to choose non-toxic alternatives instead of trying to hide risky plants.
| Plant | Why it’s a problem | What people confuse it with | Safer swap |
|---|---|---|---|
| True lilies (Lilium spp.) / daylilies (Hemerocallis spp.) | Severe for cats; can cause kidney failure (including from pollen/vase water). | Peace lily / calla lily / “lily” in common names | Orchids (Phalaenopsis), African violets. (petpoisonhelpline.com) |
| Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) | Severely toxic; can cause liver failure and death. | True palms (areca, parlor) that are non-toxic | Areca palm or parlor palm. (aspca.org) |
| Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) | Toxic to cats/dogs; mouth irritation, drooling, vomiting; calcium oxalates. | Spider plant (safe) because both can be trailing/hanging | Spider plant or Swedish ivy. (aspca.org) |
| Philodendron / Monstera (often sold as “split-leaf philodendron” or “Swiss cheese plant”) | Toxic to cats/dogs; oral irritation and GI upset; calcium oxalates. | Some people assume all “tropical foliage” is the same risk level | Calathea or hoya for a tropical look. (aspca.org) |
| Dieffenbachia (dumb cane) | Toxic to cats/dogs; intense mouth irritation and drooling; calcium oxalates and enzymes. | Aglaonema/chinese evergreen (also commonly warned about) | Parlor palm or peperomia. (aspca.org) |
| Peace lily (Spathiphyllum) | Toxic to cats/dogs; oral irritation, drooling, vomiting; calcium oxalates. | True lilies (even more dangerous for cats) due to similar naming | Phalaenopsis orchid, African violet. |
| Snake plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) | Toxic to cats/dogs; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (saponins). | Cast iron plant (safe) because both are “tough” plants | Cast iron plant. (aspca.org) |
| Aloe (Aloe vera) | Toxic to cats/dogs; vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea (ASPCA notes the gel is considered edible, but the plant is still listed toxic). | Echeveria-type rosettes (some are non-toxic; verify specific plant) | Christmas cactus or a verified non-toxic succulent. (aspca.org) |
How to pet-proof your plants (so “safe” stays safe)
- Use “vertical space” first: hanging baskets, tall plant stands, and wall shelves keep leaves away from mouths and paws (and reduce knocked-over soil).
- Choose heavier planters for floor plants: a stable pot prevents a dog from tipping a palm while zooming through the living room.
- Block access during the novelty phase: for the first week or two, place new plants in a room pets can’t access, then reintroduce strategically.
- Reduce the “toy factor”: avoid long dangling vines if your cat is a swatter; choose compact plants (African violets, peperomia) or train vines up a support.
- Keep the soil covered: a layer of large decorative stones can deter digging (and reduce the chance of your pet tasting fertilizers mixed into soil).
Hidden hazards: it’s not always the plant
Fertilizers and soil amendments
Fertilizers can be a bigger risk than your “pet-safe” plant. Pet Poison Helpline warns that while small ingestions may only cause mild stomach upset, larger ingestions can lead to serious poisoning depending on the ingredients, and fertilizer found in meals can contribute to obstructive and pancreatitis issues as well. They recommend that you store fertilizer well sealed and be sure to apply it in areas where pets can’t access soil- or plant-hating recently-treated easy access to inedibles. (petpoisonhelpline.com)
Essential oils and diffusers
If you’re building a pet-friendly plant corner, don’t forget the scents. The ASPCA warns that concentrated essential oils can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, and more if ingested, and advises keeping oils out of reach and avoiding applying them to pets directly; the first (no application) applies here, too. They point out that diffusers involve additional caution: placement and ventilation are considerations. (aspca.org)
If your pet chews a plant: what to do
- Take it away: Put the plant out of reach and remove any bits of it you can see in the mouth (don’t get bitten or let them eat more).
- Identify it: If it’s a new plant, take a photo of the whole plant along with the pot, so you know exactly what it is, including the name on the tag. If it’s from a bouquet, keep the bouquet label too.
- Check for symptoms and act: Vomiting, drooling, trouble swallowing, diarrhea, weakness, difficulty breathing—all are reasons to call in the help of a professional.
- Call Poison Control or your veterinarian. ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435, 24/7 though there is a consultation fee. (aspca.org)
- If you think a cat has been exposed to a lily, treat it as an emergency even if your kitty seems fine at first; starting treatment early is so important. (fda.gov)
Common mistakes pet owners make when buying houseplants
- Trusting the “pet-friendly” shelf sign without verifying exact plant name in database. (aspca.org)
- Assume “mildly toxic” means “no big deal.” A mild to moderate plant can still do ER visit damage when enough is eaten, or if your pet is tiny or medically fragile.
- Keeping lilies in a home with cats (even briefly). Pollen travels easily to fur and is consumed when your cat grooms. (fda.gov)
- Ignoring non-plant danger like fertilizers and essential oils in the same area as pets. (petpoisonhelpline.com)
- Buying a plant you can’t keep up with (then drowning or starving it), leading to pests and/or the temptation to use stronger pesticides indoors.
FAQ: Pet-safe houseplants for cats and dogs
Q: Are spider plants safe for cats and dogs?
A: Yes—spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is listed as non-toxic to both cats and dogs in the ASPCA database, but any plant they chew is potentially mildly irritating to their guts. Consider plant placement! (aspca.org)
Q: What’s the best “big floor plant” for a pet home? Are any potted plants like parlor and areca palms toxic to pets?
A: Parlor palm (Chamaedorea elegans) and areca palm (Dypsis lutescens) are both listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA and are common indoor floor plants. An especially heavy pot can reduce the risk for tipping over. (aspca.org)
Q: Are orchids safe around pets?
A: The most popular orchid, Phalaenopsis (moth orchid) is listed as non-toxic to cats and dogs by the ASPCA. However, no matter what type of plant, be sure to give chewing an automatic No-No especially to avoid pesticide contact from store bought plants. (aspca.org)
Q: Why are lilies such a big deal for cats?
A: True lilies are highly toxic to cats (causing acute kidney damage) and even small exposures, such in pollen found on the cat or water from a vase, can result in exposure. Lilies in general not only refer to members of the lily family. Because of this risk, the very best option with these lilies is not to have them in the home with the cat. (fda.gov)
Q: Is pothos really toxic, or just irritating?
A: Golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is considered toxic to cats and dogs by ASPCA because of the insoluble calcium oxalates it produces in its leaves. Signs of poisoning include oral irritation, resulting in burning and swelling of the mouth, tongue and lips, drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing, etc. (aspca.org)
Q: What if I already own a toxic plant, like snake plant or philodendron?
A: If you wish to remain with the potential hazard in your home, as you most certainly will want to keep the plant out of the pets’ reach; and put the plant in a room your pet is not allowed in. Use natural deterrents or a physical barrier. And always assume that accidents can happen! If your pet chews plants frequently (or if you live in a cat home with lilies), you should trade up for a verified non-hazard. (aspca.org)
Q: Are fertilizers dangerous to pets?
A: They can be. Pet Poison Helpline notes that fertilizers can vary from mild GI upset toxicity, to varying degrees of poisoning, depending on ingredients and quantity. Meal-type fertilizers pose added risks. Store securely away from pets and keep pets away from recently fertilized pots. (petpoisonhelpline.com)
Q: What’s the most reliable way to check plant toxicity quickly?
A: The simplest indicator is looking the plant up by its exact (likely scientific) name in a reputable database like the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants list, and verifying it’s non-toxic to the species you have (cats vs. dogs).
(aspca.org)