Have you ever caught your cat batting at a dangling leaf or your dog sniffing around your houseplants? My sister’s cat, Spuds, would chew on her one plant (especially after enjoying some dried catnip).
So I figured it might be best to double-check which plants are actually safe for my sister’s critters.
Indoor plants that are safe for pets include the Areca Palm, Parlor Palm, Spider Plant, Calathea, Haworthia, Boston Fern, Peperomia, Ponytail Palm, Mosaic Plant, and Cast Iron Plants. They are pet-safe options that combine style with safety in your home.
Finding the right balance between houseplants and pets can feel tricky, but this guide eliminates the guesswork. Explore this list of stunning indoor plants safe for your fluffy, feathery, or scaly companions while adding beauty your home’s decor.
10 Best Pet Safe Indoor Plants
Do you want to add some greenery to your home but are paranoid about your pet’s safety? Look no further! Here are my top picks of animal-friendly plants that will beautify your home and even entertain your pets.
#1. Areca Palm
Add a touch of the tropics with the perennial Areca Palm, also called the butterfly palm. This lush, pet-safe plant features feathery fronds that allow you to feel relaxed in a chilled atmosphere.
Areca Palms are also excellent air purifiers, helping to improve your indoor air quality. Your pets can roam freely around this plant without worry, making it a great addition to a pet-loving household.
#2. Parlor Palm
As its scientific name indicates, the Parlor Palm, or Neanthe Bella, is an elegant plant. It’s easy to care for, as it thrives in low light, making it ideal for apartments or offices. With its soft, arching fronds, the Parlor Palm is safe for curious pets who may sniff or nibble on it.
The Parlor Palm is known for removing toxins from the air, making it pet—and family-friendly. Furthermore, its timeless beauty complements any decor style.
#3. Spider Plant
Spider plants are perfect for plant newbies and pet parents alike. They are hardly little plants with striped, arching leaves and tiny offshoots resembling spiders.
My Spider plant is in a hanging basket, and when I look at it, it reminds me of little fireworks explosions.
Spider Plants are non-toxic to cats and dogs and seem to thrive on neglect, making them ideal for busy households. Like the Areca and Parlor Palms, the Spider plant helps reduce indoor air pollutants. Plus, some pets love to bat at the dangling “spiders,” so it can double up as entertainment.
That being said, do not allow your cat or dog to consume large amounts of spider plant as that could have a negative effect on your pet.
#4. Calatheas
Part of the Arrowroot order, Calatheas add a pop of color to any room with their strikingly patterned leaves. Whether you choose a rattlesnake Calathea or pinstripe variety, you bring home a safe plant for your pets.
Calatheas love a humid environment, making these beauties perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, and terrariums (yay, reptiles and amphibians also get pretty decor).
The plant’s air-purifying abilities contribute to a healthier home environment, and their dramatic “prayer” movements are fascinating to watch.
#5. Haworthia
If you love succulents but worry about pet safety, Haworthia is your answer. These small, hardy plants feature triangular leaves with white-crested strips on the side. Safe for pets, Haworthia thrives in natural bright light and requires minimal watering.
Place your Haworthia on a sunny windowsill and enjoy a touch of greenery without fear of harming your furry friends. These cute little succulents prove that big charm can come in small packages.
#6. Boston Fern
The Boston Fern (Sword Fern) is a classic indoor plant safe for pets. It has abundant cascading feather fronds and thrives in humid environments like bathrooms, kitchens, and (you guessed it) terrariums.
What I love about the Boston Fern is that it’s a low-maintenance plant that increases indoor humidity while removing airborne toxins.
#7. Peperomia
Peperomias are small, low-maintenance plants with various leaf shapes and textures. Whether you prefer the watermelon, ripple, baby rubber plant, or “Piccolo Banda” varieties, they’re all non-toxic to pets.
Peperomias are ideal for small spaces and require only occasional watering. Their compact size makes it easy to place them on shelves or desks, making them a delightful, pet-safe way to add greenery to your home.
Note: Baby rubber plants are unrelated to the toxic Ficus elastica, called rubber trees or plants.
#8. Ponytail Palm
The Ponytail Palm is a fascinating plant that combines the look of a tree with the ease of a succulent. Its bulbous, woody stem looks like a miniature tree trunk, and its long, flowing leaves add a touch of whimsy to your home.
Safe for pets, you may even discover that your Ponytail Palm is an excellent conversation starter. Mine reminds me of the interesting illustrated trees in Dr. Seuss’s books.
The Ponytail Palm is drought-tolerant, meaning it requires occasional watering. Even your pets will be intrigued by its playful, curly foliage.
#9. Mosaic Plant
Also called the Nerve or Jewel Plant, the Mosaic Plant features striking, veined leaves in green, pink, or white shades. This humid-loving plant is non-toxic to cats and dogs and is an excellent addition to terrariums.
Fittonias are low-growing and easy to care for, making them a perfect choice for tabletops or bookshelves. You’ll love how its vibrant leaves add color and charm to any space.
#10. Cast Iron Plant
The Cast Iron Plant is like the Chuck Norris of indoor plants as it’s nearly indestructible. It tolerates low light, neglect, and various conditions while remaining safe for pets. Cast Iron Plants have dark, paddle-like leaves that bring a touch of elegance to any room.
It’s a hardy plant that is perfect for busy households and curious pets, showing that resilience and beauty can go paw in hand.
Final Thoughts
Bringing greenery into your home doesn’t mean compromising your pet’s safety. With these 11 pet-safe indoor plants, you can enjoy a lush, vibrant living space without worry. From air-purifying palms to colorful Calatheas, each plant offers unique benefits while keeping your critters safe.
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