Adding greenery to your living space is a great way to create a calm, vibrant atmosphere. But if you live with pets, you need to be extra careful — many popular houseplants are toxic to dogs and cats. Fortunately, there are plenty of beautiful, non-toxic plants that are safe to keep around your furry companions.
In this article, we’ll share a list of pet-friendly plants and essential tips to keep your indoor jungle both safe and stylish.
Why Pet-Safe Plants Matter
Pets are naturally curious. Cats like to nibble, dig, or knock over plants, while dogs may chew on leaves during play or boredom. Unfortunately, many common plants — like pothos, philodendron, lilies, and snake plants — are toxic and can cause vomiting, drooling, or worse if ingested.
Keeping only non-toxic plants reduces your pet’s risk and your worry.
10 Beautiful and Safe Plants for Pet-Friendly Homes
These plants are approved by the ASPCA as non-toxic to both cats and dogs. They’re perfect for brightening your home without compromising your pet’s safety.
1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy
- Pet Bonus: Cats love the grassy texture, but it’s completely non-toxic
This hardy, low-maintenance plant is easy to grow and can thrive in hanging baskets — safely out of reach if needed.
2. Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens)
- Light: Bright, filtered light
- Water: Water when top inch of soil is dry
- Pet Bonus: Tall and tropical with feathery fronds, safe for curious chewers
Perfect for adding height and a beachy vibe to your living room.
3. Calathea (Prayer Plant)
- Light: Indirect or filtered light
- Water: Keep soil consistently moist
- Pet Bonus: Striking leaf patterns and safe if nibbled
These plants are known for their beautiful foliage and are completely pet-friendly.
4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
- Light: Indirect light or partial shade
- Water: High humidity and moist soil
- Pet Bonus: Safe to sniff, touch, or even chew in moderation
They add a lush, old-school charm and love hanging baskets or pedestal pots.
5. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
- Light: Low to moderate light
- Water: Let soil dry slightly between waterings
- Pet Bonus: Safe, decorative, and air-purifying
Also known as the Reed Palm, this plant is ideal for low-light corners.
6. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Keep soil slightly moist; avoid getting water on leaves
- Pet Bonus: Colorful blooms and totally non-toxic
These small, flowering beauties brighten up windowsills without any threat to pets.
7. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
- Light: Indirect to low light
- Water: Water sparingly; let soil dry slightly
- Pet Bonus: Tall and elegant, but safe even if licked
Great for beginners and thrives in low-maintenance environments.
8. Peperomia (Various Species)
- Light: Bright to medium indirect light
- Water: Allow top soil to dry out before watering
- Pet Bonus: Compact, fun textures, and zero toxicity
With dozens of varieties, peperomias are a versatile and pet-safe option.
9. Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
- Light: Bright, indirect light
- Water: Keep soil moist but not soggy
- Pet Bonus: Vivid leaf patterns (pink, red, white) — and totally safe
A splash of color for any pet-friendly plant shelf.
10. Friendship Plant (Pilea involucrata)
- Light: Low to moderate indirect light
- Water: Keep moist, not soggy
- Pet Bonus: Its soft, quilted leaves are safe and irresistible to touch
Perfect for coffee tables or desk decor.
Tips for Plant Safety in a Pet Home
Even with non-toxic plants, consider the following precautions:
- Elevate plants with hanging baskets or wall shelves to prevent digging or chewing
- Avoid fertilizers and pesticides that could be harmful if ingested
- Provide enrichment for pets so they’re less tempted to explore your plants
- Monitor behavior — if your pet keeps chewing, relocate the plant or offer pet-safe grass (like cat grass)
Final Thoughts: A Green Home Without the Worry
Creating a lush indoor garden doesn’t have to come at the expense of your pet’s safety. With the right plant choices, you can enjoy vibrant greenery while keeping your furry friends healthy and happy.
Choose pet-safe plants, observe how your pets interact with them, and enjoy the best of both worlds — nature and companionship in harmony.