Got furry friends at home? Most of us do, yet we forget that some plants can be particularly harmful to animals. In fact, many houseplants contain toxins that are harmful to a curious dog, cat, or other furry companion.
If you are both a pet and houseplant enthusiast, you’re likely wondering which plants are safe for your pets. Not to worry! We did the heavy lifting so you can pick plants that even your pets will love. Here’s how to choose pet-friendly plants that bring life to your living spaces and ease to your mind.
Real quick, here’s some housekeeping rules.
First, know your plant’s toxicity levels. Consult lists provided by ASPCA or other reputable resources!
Then, consider your pet’s behavior. Many pets can be curious about plants (hello, puppies). Opt for less toxic plants if your pet tends to chew on greenery.
Finally, assess your space. Some plants require more space and can be kept out of reach of pets. Larger, non-toxic plants can decorate your home without posing a risk to your pets.
Now, let’s get into specifics.
Plants Safe For Dogs
We love our canine companions, and keeping them safe is our #1 priority. Below are three pet-safe plants we recommend that are both functional, colorful, and safe for dogs:
Hibiscus: Known for its versatile flowering and bursts of color.
Peperomia: Perfect for a bright bathroom and air-purifying qualities.
Banana Plant: Adds a tropical flair and is completely safe for dogs.
Plants Safe For Cats
Our feline friends love to nibble on greenery and crawl on counters, so it’s important to have cat-safe plants around.
Here’s a few we love:
Tea Plant: Ideal for bright indoor spaces and completely harmless to cats.
Sweet Cocktail Tomato: Known for its flavor and versatility. Keep it on the counter without worrying!
Gerbera Daisy: For its vivid colors and flower clusters.
Pet Safety Tips
Ensuring the safety of your pets around houseplants is key. Some quick takeaway tips:
Place plants out of reach: Put up shelves or hanging planters to keep plants away from pets.
Be cautious with plant food: Ensure that any plant food is pet-safe and stored away from curious paws!
Watch for signs of distress: If there’s any chance that your pet could have reached a toxic plant and they show signs of illness, consult your vet immediately. Don’t risk it.
Use aesthetic pebbles and stable planters: Add these right to the dirt to discourage digging (we’re looking at you, dogs!) and put the plant in a heavy planter so they won’t topple over.
Benefits of Buying Pet-Friendly House Plants
Here are just a few reasons why pet-friendly plants benefit your home:
Enhance your home’s environment while also being safe for you and your pets.
Purify the air in your home.
Help boost both mood and productivity.
Add color and aesthetic beauty to your living space.
How to Care for Pet-Safe Indoor Plants
Keep your pet-safe plants thriving so they can continue to elevate and beautify your space. Here’s what to have in mind:
Use high-quality soil: Organic, well-draining soil is essential for plant health.
Water appropriately: Over-watering can harm plants more than under-watering (root rot is more common than you think!) Ensure pots have great drainage.
Provide sufficient light: Most houseplants require bright, indirect light. Adjust your plant seasonally for adequate light distribution.
Maintaining Your Pet-Friendly Plant Environment
Regular maintenance helps your pet-safe plants and pets live harmoniously. Here’s how to keep your green space thriving:
Clean the leaves on a regular basis. Dust can accumulate on leaves, so wipe them regularly to promote efficient photosynthesis!
Monitor your plant health. Keep an eye on your plants for signs of disease or pests and treat them promptly to prevent spread.
Be proactive. Regularly assess the setup of your plants to ensure they are safe and beneficial for additions to the household.
Beautiful, pet-friendly plants create a welcoming and cozy environment for the whole household (and yes, our pets are our family!) Enjoy your pet-friendly plants and go liven up your space.
