A Guide to Cat-Friendly Plants for Your Home
health, tipsLush greenery adds an inviting pop of color to any home, but the benefits of decorating with plants go beyond aesthetics. Bringing the outdoors inside provides your cat with the enrichment of nature, all without setting a paw outdoors.
Dr. Charlie Hall, Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M's Department of Horticultural Sciences, claims plants "can improve your quality of life, and should be perceived as a necessity due to the range of positive physical and mental impacts."
But did you know that certain plants and flowers can be hazardous to your cat's health? When adding greenery to your home, it's crucial to choose cat-friendly plants to ensure your feline's safety.
Although our fur babies share plenty of common traits, not all plants that are safe for dogs are safe for our feline friends. For instance, ingesting lilies can cause acute–and even fatal–kidney failure in cats, but might only cause mild stomach upset in dogs. So, don’t assume dog-friendly plants are cat-friendly, too.
Wondering how you can spruce up your home without risking your cat's health? We're here to help. Here's everything you need to know about cat-friendly plants.
Identifying Plant Toxicity in Cats
Cats are curious by nature, which is one of many reasons we love them. However, preventing plant toxicity in cats involves more than just preventing a nibble on a leaf or stem. In the sections below, we’ll educate you about the toxins found in common indoor and outdoor plants, highlight the symptoms of toxicity, and provide guidance on what to do if your cat has been exposed to toxins. By educating ourselves, we can create a living space that’s both beautiful and safe for our pets.
- The Risks of Non-Toxic Plants for Cats
Just because a plant is cat-friendly doesn't mean your cat should eat it. Even non-toxic plants can pose problems if consumed in large amounts. It's essential to monitor your cat's interaction with any plant. If your cat repeatedly chews on a plant, consider relocating it out of reach and redirect their attention with toys.
Here are a few preventive measures you can take to keep your cat safer around plants:
Ensure your cat doesn’t eat any part of the plant.
Prevent your cat from digging in the soil.
Discourage your cat from using plant pots as a litter box.
Don't allow your cat to drink the water from the drainage tray.
When it comes to bringing home new plants, always read the plants’ care tag before purchasing, or research the plant online. We recommend keeping this post handy when you go plant shopping in the future.
Safe Indoor Plants for Cats
Having a cat limits your options when it comes to decorating with plants, fortunately, there are several eye-catching and safe indoor plants that won’t harm your cats if ingested. Here are a few of our favorites:
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Easy to grow, with long, thin, green and white leaves. Prefers bright, indirect light and weekly watering.
Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii): Purifies the air and is considered lucky in some cultures. Needs indirect light and watering when the top inch of soil is dry.
Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): Non-toxic to cats and dogs. Likes high humidity and should be watered when the top layer of soil feels dry.
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens): It requires bright, indirect light and water when the top 1-2 inches of soil are dry.
Money Tree (Pachira aquatica): Prefers indirect light and needs watering only when the top 2-4 inches of the soil are dry.
Safe Outdoor Plants for Cats
There are plenty of safe outdoor plants that your cat can explore without worry (preferably while supervised):
Rose: Beautiful and safe for cats, with thorny stems that discourage climbing.
Sunflower: Non-toxic, large, and vibrant. Provides shade and visual interest.
Zinnia: Colorful and safe flowers that attract butterflies, providing entertainment for cats.
Thyme: Fragrant herb safe for cats, which can help with digestive problems if ingested.
Catnip: Safe and often beneficial, offering fun and relaxation for cats.
Always supervise your cat when they are outdoors, as they might encounter toxic plants, pesticides, or substances like antifreeze in neighboring yards.
FAQ
Here are a few of the most commonly searched questions regarding non-toxic plants and cats:
What plant is not toxic to cats? When in doubt, we recommend consulting the ASPCA's list of cat-friendly plants before visiting your local nursery.
What happens if my cat eats a non-toxic plant? They may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or drooling, but they'll likely be fine. Identify the plant and call your vet if concerned. It’s always better to be safe than sorry with your feline friend.
What is the most toxic house plant for cats? Lilies are highly toxic; even a trace of pollen can cause severe harm. Knowing which plants are dangerous helps protect your cat from heartbreaking consequences.
What to Do if Your Cat Eats a Toxic Plant
If your frisky feline munches on an unsafe plant, and you’re unsure about its toxicity, it's critical that you contact your emergency vet, the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661, or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately. Prompt treatment can save your fur baby's life.
By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy all the beauty and benefits plants have to offer without compromising your cat’s well-being!
